Staci Dumoski
At Chapman University, we believe that the strength of our community lies not just in our students and faculty, but in the countless individuals—parents, alumni and community members—who give their time, talent and passion to help move our mission forward. As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, we take a moment to recognize and thank the many ways our supporters stay involved as part of the Chapman Family.
“We are grateful to each of you who give your time, heart and energy to this vibrant community,” said Nidhi Vogt, associate vice president of engagement and volunteerism “Your engagement not only supports our students and faculty but strengthens the bonds that make Chapman such a special place. You inspire us daily with your generosity, and we are honored to celebrate you this week—and every week.”
Supporting Chapman’s Next Generation
“I volunteer for Chapman because it’s my way of giving back to the community that helped shape my path with amazing experiences, lessons and connections,” said Brandon Fabré ’20, a Fowler School of Engineering alumnus who lives in Las Vegas but still gives his time to Chapman in a variety of ways.
Fabré says that speaking to prospective and current students and parents at panels and mixers, participating in admissions outreach, and more allows him to stay connected and share his insights to help fellow Panthers succeed.
“For me, volunteering is a meaningful way to stay invested in the community that continues to be a significant part of my life,” he says.
Sharon and John Deacon began volunteering when their daughter first became a student at Chapman as a way of showing appreciation for those who came before and continuing the Panther spirit of welcoming and helpfulness.
“There are so many things that make Chapman special,” says Sharon. “Those who volunteer here, whether they were ever a student or not, have the unique opportunity to say not only are they a part of the Chapman Family, but they are also welcoming others into that family. And John and I can tell you first hand, that’s one of the best volunteer positions around!”
Many Ways to Get Involved
Engagement at Chapman comes in many forms. Some serve as mentors to students exploring career paths. Others assist with admissions outreach, lend their expertise to strategic committees, or help foster meaningful partnerships within the broader community. Whether it’s welcoming visitors to campus as an event volunteer, speaking on a career panel, helping students prepare for interviews or simply being a resource to current families—every form of involvement has an impact.
Our volunteers often tell us that their involvement benefits them just as much as it does the university. Docents at Chapman’s Hilbert Museum of California, for example, have the opportunity to interact with and learn from artists and experts while also helping to create a welcoming environment for museum visitors.
“As a docent, I have discovered there is also a tremendous sense of community at the Hilbert,” says Alan Purvis, a volunteer docent. “The relationship with Chapman University adds to the academic community, as well as the local community of Orange.”
The contributions of volunteers—large and small—have sparked lasting change across campus and beyond.
We invite you to explore opportunities to deepen your connection to Chapman University in ways that are personally meaningful. Whether you live in Orange County or on the other side of the country, there’s a place for you to make a difference. Find out how.
