HÂþ»­

How long have you volunteered at HÂþ»­ and in what capacities?

I have served as the vice president of the HÂþ»­ Library and Information Alumni Association (DLIAA) for two years. DLIAA’s objectives are to promote communication and cooperation between alumni, current students and faculty. Each year, DLIAA presents the Outstanding Alumni Award (OAA) to honour a member of our alumni community who has made exceptional contributions to our field. This is a particular highlight for me, as the graduate program’s history spans half a century.

What inspired you to become a Dal volunteer?

I am a three-time graduate of HÂþ»­. My deep ties to the HÂþ»­ community and countless memories have inspired a deep care for and commitment to the institution. My time at the Department of Information Science was particularly formative, and I wanted to contribute to the endurance of its alumni community by keeping them informed and included.

What have you learned or gained from volunteering at HÂþ»­?

I find it very inspiring to watch new students make Dal their own each year and find a home in Halifax. When I reflect on what draws alumni back to HÂþ»­ and keeps them connected to their community, the answer starts with their time as students at Dal. The student experience is so unique from year to year and person to person, but there are consistently beloved aspects of HÂþ»­ that endure across the ages. It's special to see those rediscovered by new students each year and unite alumni.

What is the single best experience you’ve had as a Dal volunteer?

Hosting the OAA event this year was a really beautiful experience. Our winner, Gwen Schmidt, visited with alumni colleagues and recounted many stories. They described how they helped to prevent the discontinuation of our degree program during their time at Dal. If not for their efforts, I might not have had the experience I did in the MI program. It was special to see their friendships endure and it confirmed to me that there is something particularly magical about our program and field.

What advice would you give someone considering volunteering for Dal?

I would just offer that it is a great opportunity to stay connected, and connection is something we could all use more of! So, while it is a great way to serve others, it can also be a gift to yourself.