P.J. Dupuis, Jean Wright, John RenaudAlumni board members P.J. Dupuis, Jean Wright, and John Renaud salute volunteers outside the Welcome Centre.

Alumni office promotes value of volunteering

From framing diplomas and welcoming new grads into the alumni family at Convocation to serving on the alumni association’s board of directors, volunteers play an immeasurable role in building a sense of community at the University, says Rob Janisse, co-ordinator of special projects in the Office of Alumni Affairs and Donor Communications.

“It is these contributions that help the Alumni Association carry out its mission and mandate — to contribute to the development, prestige, and advancement of the University of Windsor,” he says.

Janisse has taken the occasion of National Volunteer Week, April 15 to 21, to thank those on campus and off who give their time creating social and economic value for individuals, families, organizations, and neighbourhoods, and communities.

That note of gratitude is what motivates her, says Alumni Association president Jean Wright.

“The University of Windsor allowed me to have a career in education. I felt that it was my time to say thank you,” she says. “By volunteering, I feel that I am doing a small part in furthering the institution that gave me my livelihood. I feel the energy and passion of the students every time I come to campus, and I get a sense of accomplishment when I volunteer as part of the Alumni Association to promote and further the University of Windsor for the students.”

Janisse is seeking positive, energetic individuals to volunteer with the Alumni Association, and says that the next opportunity is for diploma framing at the Spring Convocation, May 28 to June 1 at the St. Denis Centre.

To help welcome new graduates by assisting at the diploma framing table, or to get involved with other volunteer opportunities, contact him by phone at 519-253-3000, ext. 4055, by email to robj@uwindsor.ca, or visit the website at www.uwindsor.ca/alumni.