My first CAPPA experience was the 2015 Tech Conference in San Antonio. I learned so much in those sessions and made contacts I still have today! But, an email from Glen Haubold on May 6, 2015 really changed my life for the better. On that date Glen sent out an email letter requesting volunteers for the CAPPA Committee and Executive Board . . . and the rest is history!!
Five days later, I sent a reply, after discussing with my boss, and said I would volunteer:
“We could really use your help, and if you are interested in volunteering to give something back to your profession, please let me know and I will help you find a position that suits your interest and availability. Positions can involve as little as an hour or two a month, or can be more extensive, depending on the position.”
knew I would be an empty nester in August 2015 . . . so I thought I’ll have time to give one or two hours a month!!
Well, Glen asked if I would become the Newsletter Editor . . . little did I know that the position was part of the Executive Committee.
At the first Committee meeting I was involved in, I became Assistant Treasurer (a new position) to assist the Treasurer . . . from there to Treasurer . . . from there to Conference Coordinator.
The people that I have met and have become friends with are lifelong friends! You don’t just network at CAPPA for the short-term. These “contacts” are people you can vent to, find wisdom from in addressing issues on campus, and find common denominators that only Higher Ed facilities people understand! This
group becomes FAMILY!!
I encourage you, if you are on the fence, to become a part of the family that is CAPPA! “Community” is a great word to define what CAPPA becomes to you. Become a part of something that contributes to your profession, and make a commitment that you will have no desire to back out of! There are still many openings where you can help . . . So, take the same initiative I did . . . contact the President or another Board member, or even me, and become a part of a great organization!