As we prepare the campus for Commencement this year, there are a number of faculty and staff who volunteer their time and effort to make this event a memorable one for our graduates and their parents.
When I see the number of faculty, staff, and students who volunteer during Commencement, they demonstrate their pride in Rensselaer and ensure that our graduates get the proper sendoff. Volunteering is not easy, but I suspect that the faculty, staff, and students who do volunteer work and help others on a regular basis, so this is not new to them. In addition, volunteers normally have a healthier outlook on life. I love Mother Teresa’s quote, which says it all: “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”
I understand your time is the most important thing that you can give to each other and if you think you are too busy to share some time, ask yourself these questions:
Are you looking for an opportunity to volunteer?
There are a number of not-for-profit organizations in the Capital Region seeking your skills, knowledge, and abilities.
Are you interested in learning a new skill?
Every organization has a job or two that no one really wants to do—so take on that chore! You will learn something new, but more importantly, you will discover that you can do all kinds of things you never thought you could. What job is usually the hardest to fill?
Do you like to meet new people?
Volunteering offers the chance to meet new people and develop some great friendships.
Do you need to sharpen your skills?
You can learn how to run a meeting, prepare reports, serve on committees, supervise others, and a thousand other skills that you may not be able to learn in your current position.
Are you in a rut, in need of a fresh perspective?
You will see a whole new view of the world when you step into an organization that is struggling to help those who need it most.
Do you want to make a difference?
Volunteer at a place that is desperate for help. You could be the one person who really can make all the difference.
Please remember: volunteering is a privilege and I am grateful to those who volunteer their time for Rensselaer.
Curtis N. Powell, M.S. SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Vice President for Human Resources