Chris Gatesman received a hearty “congratulations” on his nomination to Be the Change from JMU alum Lauren Maguire (‘05). Lauren’s thoughts on the Madison Experience make us proud! (Thanks for sharing, Chris!)
Chris,
You probably don’t remember me but I worked in ResLife for 3 years when I was at JMU and I am friends with Sarah Nilsen. As an alum, I try to stay updated with JMU news and was recently checking out JMU’s “Be the Change” campaign and saw your name listed. Congratulations to you on being recognized and thanks for what you have done to assist the JMU community. As a former RA, HD, Safe Zone member and student, I saw the importance of creating a nurturing and safe environment for students. I saw the importance of creating an environment where people could learn to respect and embrace each other and do the same for themselves as individuals. On an even more personal level, my older brother came out to my family while he was in college and shortly before I left for my own college experience. I know for him that coming out was difficult and that lack of support where he went to school made parts of his college experience difficult. I am happy to be the alum of a college that has individuals working to ensure that ALL students have a great college experience and know they are supported by a community.
Congrats!
Lauren Maguire (Class of 2005)
Training and Education Coordinator
703.837.6395
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
