When asked to consider being co-chair of the Emory Challenge Fund, I hesitated. There were a lot of emotions running at the same time. I did not contribute last year and wondered, what am I asking the staff to buy into? Will the University use the money to benefit the staff? Why me, I'm just a little person among many giants of Emory University? After all those negative thoughts, I finally settled down and realized that, first, it is an honor to represent such a prestigious body of the University. I also have been with the University for more than 13 years and have spoken with a host of staff from all levels to get their outlook on the University. I also feel that I have been very blessed and fortunate to be able to serve as past president of Employee Council, as well as a member of the University Senate, College Staff Consortium and the Staff Day Committee.
My primary reason to accept this position is to let staff, faculty and students know that we are all vital to the growth of Emory University. Many staff have felt that the University only cares about academia, but that's not really the case. If a staff member would look back seven to 10 years ago, before we had a Human Resources Division, they would find that we did not have such attractive buildings, dental care, Emory-Care or a strong retirement program. Staff were not given opportunities to take advantage of career-enhancing courses or courtesy scholarships. These changes were possible because of people like you and me who strive forward to bring the very best to the University.
Yes, we've come a long way. However, we as staff must continue to maintain a vision to reach higher heights and deeper depths in educating, empowering and developing all people of this fine University. We are called to serve one another, by reaching out so we can teach each other.
We, as Emory staff, really need to take our place as contributors to our own vision as part of this University. By making a contribution toward the Chal-lenge Fund, we are actually buying into our future, not only the future of oneself but also of our families. When we look at the big picture of life and our environment, this same philosophy holds true in the broader community. I feel fortunate, and I know you do, to be part of this Emory University community and the many opportunities that it offers to each and every one of us.
There are some of us who will try to alienate ourselves from the Emory University community for one reason or another, not fully understanding that we are important to this University. The Emory University community is like a body, and every part is vital toward the growth of the body. When a part is missing (whether small or large), the whole body feels the loss.
People like you and me, must strive forward to be part of the vision of Emory University. My question to you is, do you dare to be part of the Emory University family? Please make your contribution today; you'll be glad you did.
Bertha Hunt is administrative assistant in the psychology department.