Stephen R. Denis '17 '18G

Get to Know Our February 2023 Honoree!

Meet Stephen – a top notch SNHU volunteer with a true go-getter attitude. He's a strong advocate for making a change through the power of volunteerism and inspiring others to start showing up for causes they connect with. He's been involved in everything from SNHU's Center for New Americans to our Active Citizen Network. Check out our Q&A below to learn even more about Stephen and his passion for giving back.

What inspires you to volunteer at SNHU?

I believe the collective mission of humanity is to leave the planet better off for future generations than we found it. Seem daunting? It’s not! It starts with an individual committing to getting involved and making a positive impact in their community. And through those efforts you’ll connect with others who share similar passions and struggles. People standing together in solidarity have been history’s greatest vehicle for change.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at SNHU?

The staff, faculty, students and alumni are motivated to challenge the status quo and transform lives. It’s that type of character that pushes me to stay involved and do more. And they know that some of the most meaningful experiences come from being outside of your comfort zone. Besides the direct impact that your service provides in the short term, you’re often left imprinted by your experience of putting a cause before yourself with your peers. 

What results have you seen from your efforts?

I can't think of my various volunteer experiences at SNHU, without first thinking of the people I connected with and the relationships I built. I’ve connected with thousands of parents and prospective students visiting SNHU for the first time, trying to instill that sense of community I felt when I first stepped foot on campus. As part of an Alternative Break service trip to Cincinnati, myself and a dozen students learned about gentrification, the history of red lining, and systemic inequities in the housing industry. We did this while working alongside individuals experiencing homelessness to help spread awareness and unlock a new level of compassion. Most recently, I organized a day of service with my coworkers to spend at the SNHU Center for New Americans, which focuses on refugee resettlement. During our time at the Center we hung out with some amazing kids, helped them with homework, and tried to keep up with them while playing a good ol' game of soccer.

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

Each time I volunteer my main focus is always on making a positive impact on others, but you'll be surprised sometimes by the huge impact that these experiences have on you and your personal growth. They start to unlock a deeper sense of humanity you never knew you had until that moment. My ability to connect the dots between the past and the present grew. My ability to recognize my own privilege and have empathy for those in situations I can't relate to increased. I also gained the knowledge that this type of work and the learning that supports it truly fills my cup. 

Will you continue to volunteer at SNHU? Why?

I consider myself an active citizen, whose community is a priority in what I value and the life choices I make. My involvement in SNHU’s Active Citizen Network (ACN) will in no doubt continue to connect me with other like-minded Penmen and unique volunteering opportunities. As I have grown up and further developed my values, I certainly recognize they’ve become intertwined with those of SNHU. The volunteer experiences you participate in can reward you personally and professionally, while your community reaps the benefits. It's a win-win for everyone involved!

Will you encourage others to get involved? How?

I'll continue to raise my hand for volunteering opportunities and speak to faculty, staff, students and alumni about my experiences and what becoming an ACN member has done for me and more importantly what I’ve been able to do for others. Additionally, I'm always sure to make my service projects an open and welcoming experience to motivate others to step out of their comfort zone and join. I truly believe in strength in numbers and know the ability to make a difference amplifies when standing in solidarity with your peers for a greater cause. 

Additional Comments:

I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to share about my history of volunteering with SNHU and the impact it has had on me. I encourage you to get involved — you certainly won't regret it! And if you would like to connect with me further and stay up-to-date with the causes I’m showing up for, I encourage you to connect with me on LinkedIn or follow me on Twitter: @StephenRDenis. 

Past Volunteer Spotlight Honorees