Syndee Bean ’19

Get to Know Our February 2021 Honoree!

Syndee is all about getting people to join together for a common cause. She truly sees the value in giving back to those in need and is a first-class role model for her little one. Check out our Q&A below to learn more about why she is a top advocate for volunteering with SNHU!

What inspires you to volunteer at SNHU?

Volunteering with SNHU has allowed me to connect with students and alumni in the community. The first year participating and bringing this idea to life was in support of the Mental Health Awareness Club on SNHUconnect where I was a cabinet member. A fellow cabinet member (Brianna Roy) and I recognized the importance of giving back to those in need. With our project Knit/Crochet Along with Warm Up America, we knew that yarn crafts offered benefits to aiding mental health. So, tying the two together ending up being the perfect fit!

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at SNHU?

Being able to give back to the community — both local and around the world is absolutely fantastic. Warm up America and SNHU's Global Days of Service (GDS) offer the platform to be able to do so much good for people. I have found that being able to help a person when they are in need is an honor and a privilege.

What results have you seen from your efforts?

The results have been amazing! We have seen online and campus students come together for a common cause. Collectively, it is reported that Warm Up America has received more than 100 knitted or crocheted squares from the GDS project — which will be stitched together and turned into afghans/blankets. Plus, I have noticed a raised awareness for the Warm Up America Project (especially in regards to mental health awareness) as well as a broader community of people coming together.

Did anything unexpected happen as a result of your volunteer activities?

Seeing how fast the project grew and how much it resonated with people. When Brianna and I first conceptualized the project, we didn’t know if anyone would be interested or if it would end up just being the two of us in a virtual room talking and knit/crocheting. Then we saw the project take on its own heartbeat and continue to grow. We have met so many wonderful people who may never have crossed paths otherwise. The desire to help others truly brings people together in ways you can't imagine, until you experience it for yourself.

Will you continue to volunteer at SNHU? Why?

Absolutely, I will continue to volunteer at SNHU! I have seen how valuable GDS projects are — during my time as a student and now as an alumna. Brianna and I definitely want to keep seeing the project grow and evolve. We are hoping to have both virtual and in-person (once it is safe again) knit/crochet circles.

Will you encourage others to get involved? How?

I encourage all SNHU students and alumni to participate in GDS. The program is so special and you have a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, build friendships, share ideas, and help others all at the same time. The combination is pretty irresistible!

Past Volunteer Spotlight Honorees