CLA Alumni Volunteers, We Thank You!

CLA Alumni volunteers provide irreplaceable mentorships, guidance, input, and support to CLA students, programs, activities, and more. We celebrate and share our gratitude for their service this week. Feeling inspired? Submit our Alumni Volunteer Form and we'll connect you with an opportunity to give back, too!

The inspiration behind volunteering can take myriad forms. We asked four CLA alumni volunteers: Why did you begin volunteering?

Finding community in giving back

"It started with my parents. I remember my mother being a dedicated blood donor, and at the time it felt odd to endure discomfort when you didn’t have to, but she always said 'help others if you can.' Of course, as you get older you become aware of all the help you receive. I recommend doing something you like ([for me] pickleball and travel) and finding ways  others can benefit from your interest. I also think you inspire others to join [that way]. “Many hands make light work”—as if it’s work? Community with like-minded people creates a safe place to do new and maybe uncomfortable things." 
— Douglas Pursley (BA '89, speech communication)

Supporting lasting connections

"I began volunteering because I wanted to give back to the group that gave so much to me. The band program is where my parents met and when I followed in their footsteps, it’s also where I met so many lifelong friends and my now husband. Through my volunteer work, I am able to help make the band experience fun for students. As a part of the band alumni society I help assemble care packages for students during band camp, we provide receptions for concert band, and in the last few years I have been able to be more involved in our scholarship process, where we are able to reward students who are already giving back to the band and the community." 
— Kirsten Rasmussen-Kells (BA '17, English)

Offering invaluable guidance and expertise 

"I began volunteering with the University of Minnesota’s Professional Master's in Strategic Communication Professional Advisory Board because I believe in the transformative power of strategic communication in shaping industries and communities. As a marketing and communications executive, I have benefited greatly from mentors and professional networks, and I wanted to give back by supporting the next generation of leaders. It’s been rewarding to contribute insights and guidance that help bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring students are well-prepared to excel in their careers." 
— Maurice Perkins (MA '22, strategic communication)

Helping clear the path ahead

“I volunteer because I want to share my time and experiences with the next generation of students. My personal mission of enhancing education access and inclusion through advocacy is what led me to join the Student and Recent Alumni Council. In our modern world with AI and constant technological changes, I believe CLA grads will be uniquely prepared to succeed using creativity and engagement with others. However, the path to graduation and beyond is not always clear. I hope by sharing the challenges I have faced, the path will be a little smoother for current students and recent grads.” 
— Jordan Hendershot (BA ‘15, anthropology)

 

This story was edited by Cass Bryant, an undergraduate student in CLA.