From Classroom to Boardroom
By Irene Berger
It seems
like it was only yesterday that I was tossing my graduation cap
into the air celebrating the pomp and circumstance of WVU commencement.
In May, I found myself wondering what the members of the graduating
class of 2003 were thinking. For some, jitters over an uncertain
job market may have subsided long enough for them to enjoy the
moment. I certainly hope so. Back in 1979, I tossed my cap into
the air ending a seven-year journey through undergraduate and
law school at WVU. Little did I realize that 24 years later I
would still be a regular on campus.
My tenure as president of the board of directors of the WVU Alumni Association is the latest leg in that journey. I have been fortunate to sit on the visiting committees of the WVU College of Law, the President's Office of Social Justice, and a short stint on the University board of advisors (now the board of governors). Each of these opportunities has given me a new and different perspective about our University. One important thing I realized is that much of what I learned as a student was made possible through the committed service of alumni. Those who returned to campus to serve on these boards and committees helped shape WVU into the fine, nationally recognized institution it is today. That is why my fellow alumni board members and I spend countless hours volunteering our time to WVU. We want to give back to a place that has given so much to us.
Having grown up in McDowell County, which is now one of the most economically depressed areas of our state, I have a keen understanding of how education can make the difference in a person's life. My parents insisted that my eight siblings and I work hard to obtain the education that was not available to them. However, from the bench every day, it is painfully obvious that not all students have that support and guidance. So the commitment of faculty and alums is more important than ever. As a mathematics major and a law student at WVU, I was exposed to professors and alumni who revealed a world of possibilities to my classmates and me. Many of them were shining exemplars of service and dedication.
Today, I hope that WVU alumni realize how much their talents are needed by their alma mater. Those who feel a certain closeness or tie to the University may already be involved. That commitment is applauded and greatly appreciated. However, we want to also reach out to those of you who have lost touch or those who have not been involved in WVU activities for a while. Contact the dean of your college, your local alumni chapter, or any other WVU group to see how you can make a difference.
Fellow alumni consistently tell me that they often do not bargain for one factor when volunteering . . . the reward factor. There is something to be said for the satisfaction involved when serving on a visiting committee, in an alumni chapter, or working with a Parents Club group. My journey from classroom to courtroom to boardroom has proven this to me. That is why I firmly believe that the majority of those who have attended the University can benefit from getting involved with their alma mater. What could be more important or more rewarding than having a direct impact on tomorrow's leaders?