I visited with Christine Buczynski recently and am pleased to share a spotlight of Chris and her work with the St. Joseph Chapter.
Degree and Graduation Year from IU: B.S., Business, 1973, M.S., Education, 1975
Chapter Region: St. Joseph County Chapter
Role/Title on Board: Former President
Tell me how you first got involved in working with IUAA.
In 2002, I “answered the call” from an email to potentially serve on the St. Joseph County Board. It was enjoyable to initially work with John Laskowski, who was serving as the IUAA liaison to our Board.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with the alumni association?
Service to our University is a fulfilling experience while socializing and networking with other alumni and individuals at IUAA. I am honored to serve with alumni who bring an array of experiences to our Board, and I love the connection to IU. It has been a good experience to see how IUAA continuously refines its organization to provide support to alumni leaders and services to alumni. Alumni input is a major part of the process.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering?
“The Only Prerequisite is that You Love IU!” I understand the challenge individuals face to balance work, family, and life. With broad choices for involvement in social and lifelong learning events, community engagement, and philanthropy, no volunteer role is too small to accomplish projects. Volunteer options are limitless and fun while making a difference in your community! You have a voice, and we value any involvement that fits your schedule. Opportunities to enhance leadership skills are also available online through IUAA and during Alumni Leader Conferences.
Do you have a specific contribution or achievement in your work with your alumni board of which you are most proud?
Our IU presence is evident when we plan events in collaboration with community partners or other alumni groups to benefit local nonprofit agencies. Game watches and other social events also benefit our scholarship fund. Events are especially successful when alumni are first-time guests. Our goal is to connect alumni to IU! The St. Joseph County Chapter partnered with our venue, The Studebaker National Museum, to sponsor an IUAA Career Services event. Guests arrived at the welcome station and received folders and an IU-decorated treat bag of trail mix with red and white M&Ms; they were seated at round tables with candy-striped tablecloths. A local meteorologist and former IU basketball cheerleader volunteered as the emcee. A new women’s specialty shop provided apparel and accessories to IUAA models; displayed merchandise; and donated door prizes. Participants made a nominal donation to our scholarship fund for professional head shots by a photographer from IU South Bend.