Profiles In Civic Engagement: Leanne Pinnard

Year: Senior
Major: Economics

• Community Service Chair of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Pi Colony
• Team Read Captain for the American Diabetes Association Walk in Johnson City
• Initiated the first American Latex Allergy Association Walk

How did you first get involved in community service at Binghamton University?

I have been doing community service all my life, I was a Girl Scout and have always looked to better my community.  In 2010, I won the Miss Long Island Teen pageant and that was when I realized I could truly make a difference in the community.  I have always been an advocate for Community Service and Philanthropy and when I transferred into Binghamton University in 2011 I was unsure how I could get involved. That was when I decided to join Sigma Alpha Epsilon Pi Colony. The following semester I became the Community Service Chair to help my peers become active in the Binghamton Community.  

What kinds of volunteer experiences have you had here, and what organizations have you worked with?

Being a part of a Greek organization allowed me to make a difference in the Binghamton Community while spending time with my friends.  Although I am active in the community with my sorority, I am also active in the community on my own.  I was Team Read Captain for the American Diabetes Association Walk in Johnson City; I initiated the first American Latex Allergy Association Walk, and held various fundraisers for cancer patients. 

Why do you think it is important for students to become civically engaged?

I believe it is important for students to become engaged in the community because there is no better feeling than knowing you have helped someone.  Often times we get caught up in our own lives, and forget that there are people out there who need our help, taking a few hours out of our busy schedules to lend a hand to someone who needs it, is one of the greatest satisfactions in life.  In light of Sandy’s recent destruction, there is no better time then now to lend a hand.  

For information on Sany Relief efforts, go to cce.binghamton.edu