When I first spoke to Kyle about this blog, I asked him, “Why do you volunteer with the IUAA?” I felt it best to let his words speak for themselves. Here is Kyle’s reflection on his extensive volunteering with various alumni groups.

“I think the better question is why wouldn’t you volunteer with the IUAA.

While I was an undergraduate student at IU, I played in the Marching Hundred and Big Red Basketball Band. These were tight knit groups of folks who were passionate about IU. These groups instilled in me a sense of community and a sense of greater pride in Indiana University.

I then went on to the Indiana University School of Optometry. During my years there I held several leadership positions within the student association. During my second year in optometry school I was asked to be a student representative to the School of Optometry Alumni Board. I was able to see what the alumni board did and made some great connections and friendships over the course of those two years. When I graduated from the School of Optometry, I was asked if I would  be interested in joining the board. I agreed, and have served for the last five years.

Through my involvement with IUAA, I feel that I can give back to my alma mater, and specifically those groups and schools that gave me the ultimate Hoosier experience. I have met so many great staff and volunteers that energize and fuel the spirit. We make the work we do fun. I have made some great friends during my time volunteering with the IUAA.

I would definitely encourage folks to get involved in the alumni activities of the aspects that of your IU experience that you cherished most. You will make great memories and friends, and I guarantee that you’ll get far more than you give.”

Kyle is a humble volunteer leader. He is also the current president of his hometown alumni chapter in the Greater Evansville Region. Kyle has been involved on the Evansville board for a number of years and gained progressive roles in the leadership of the chapter. As the president, I can assure you, he will help IU leave a lasting legacy in the Evansville community.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]