Investment 101: Return on Your Investment

My most profitable investment has not been in stocks, real estate, or cows. Quite unexpectedly, my most profitable investment has been the time I have spent working with the ALS Alumni Association.

I started my work with the Association shortly after moving from Ithaca to the Mohawk Valley. I saw the primary benefit of participation being the means to establish a contact base in a new area and reconnect with past acquaintances. At first I asked the same questions we all ask: How much work will be involved if I volunteer? How will I find the time? What will the benefits be? As is the case with any organization or relationship, you can only get back when you give.

What have been the rewards of my seven-year investment so far? I have traveled from Boston to the Napa Valley, made friends from Maine to Hawaii, and had the opportunity to interact with alumni from around the world. I had the privilege of participating in the Inauguration of President Lehman, without question one of the most inspiring and exciting events of a lifetime. I have attended forums and leadership conferences, which have been both mind expanding and energizing. How many of us spend too much time mired in the details of what we do daily and lose sight of the changing world around us? Staying connected with the college has allowed me to continue to reap the rewards of the initial investment made in my education.

At alumni board meetings we often ask the question, what are the tangible benefits of being a member of our Association? We continually conclude that membership certificates or lifetime membership pins are not the reason to get involved. We are a fun group of individuals with much to share. Involvement on the board level has provided another level of tangible benefits. Participating in long-term planning, changing bylaws, and creating the Liberty Hyde Bailey Leadership Society have improved my skills both for work and my involvement with other volunteer organizations.

Our time is the most precious resource we have to commit to any endeavor; my time commitment has provided me with a wealth of experiences and connections. I expect to continue to enjoy the benefits of this time investment for many years to come. Isn’t it time for you to get involved?

- Mollie Pulver ’80
  Alumni Association President