Jude Carstensen, Columbus State Community College
Jude serves many roles on our campus including, Peer Advocate, Student Ambassador, Cougars for the Community member and orientation leader. As an orientation leader, he communicated with new students and their families about the transition to college; his approach was genuine and authentic. His vision to help others is impressive. One example of this servant leadership is that Jude decided, on his own volition, to create a presentation for fellow students mobilizing them to serve their communities. Jude’s talent as a servant leader also made itself evident in last year’s Alternative Spring Break program. Jude not only worked diligently at each task set before him, but he also made it his point to keep conversation going with the other volunteers. He has also been very involved in Global Diversity and Inclusion and in Autumn semester Jude participated in two learning communities; PONO and M.A.N. Initiative. These communities provide opportunities for students and employees to explore their own diverse identities and experiences. In summary, Jude is a leader through his actions, not by the many titles he has earned.
-David Harrison, President
“My GOSH is volunteering boring.” said my high school self. Before enrolling in Columbus State Community College in Autumn 2013, involvement and volunteerism were far from mind. During my two years at CSCC the opportunities I engaged in changed my previously selfish views. My first semester I joined the Cougars for the Community volunteer organization. I was rapidly exposed to the reality of poverty, showing me the importance of service. In Spring 2014, I was hired as a Peer Advocate. I served as a student liaison, promoting campus resources. I was also certified as an Ohio Benefit Bank counselor, helping low-income students apply to federal assistance programs. This position taught me that service isn’t an option, but a civic duty. Summer 2014, I worked as an Orientation Leader, my focus was informing prospective students about the college. Next semester, I began to work as a Student Ambassador. Leading tours, planning campus events, and assisting students continued to instill lessons of service and leadership. Many problems face the world today, but my collective experiences show me change is possible. I want to serve for life; anyway, anyone, anywhere. I owe it to the world and its inhabitants.
-Jude Carstensen
