Take a Lesson from Valentine's Chocolates: If It's Not Wrapped...Avoid It.

We kicked of the year in style with a rip-roaring Summit social! We brought in a dance instructor to teach those of us who attended a few basic ballroom dance steps (in honor of February, the month of .... mush). It was a great time!

What accomplishments do you hope to see happen with your project over the course of this semester?

So far we've been focused, mainly, on promoting awareness of Planned Parenthood on campus and the services they provide. This has been a great venture and I think we've succeeded in taking a bit of the stigma away from Planned Parenthood within the Drury community. I would like to work more closely with Planned Parenthood supporting their cause directly, while still maintaining a strong presence on campus.

What has been the greatest experience this past month volunteering with the agency?

In January we had the opportunity to help with a Planned Parenthood-sponsored event to celebrate the anniversary of the passing of Roe v. Wade. A "Champion of Choice" award was given to a member of the Springfield community who has played a significant role in supporting the causes of Planned Parenthood. We were able to meet other students and volunteers who also work with Planned Parenthood.

What has been your greatest challenge this past month volunteering with the agency?

We had a little issue with communication and Planned Parenthood springing a last-minute event on us, but it was all resolved and worked out just fine. It's always a challenge to work with people's schedules and make events accessible to everyone.

Through the class this semester what is the one project or activity you are looking forward to the most?

I am looking forward to spending 24 hours completely technology-free. It will be a nice little vacation. I have plans to return to my childhood with crayons and coloring books!

How has this past semester made you a stronger leader and what leadership roles do you plan to take on this semester for your Summit Group?

I'm really happy about my Summit experience because you get to work closely with a small group over an extended period of time towards a common goal. I think this experience will really be helpful in the future. I've learned through this experience how to direct a conversation to stay on topic. I would like to take charge of schedule organization this semester to try to avoid the problems we've been having with conflicts and lack of communication.

Forever and for always,
Brady