Rachel Leone
It was back in March when I heard about the opening for the Public Relations position at the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities. I remember thinking, ‘Now that is a job I would love to have.'I first became involved with RCPD at the end of my freshman year. I was fortunate enough to be chosen for membership into Tower Guard. Tower Guard is a sophomore honorary organization on campus that volunteers their time at RCPD through reading exams and textbooks.
It was during my sophomore year that I found RCPD becoming such a fantastic and important part of my days. Usually I would stop in for about an hour to read in between classes and each day RCPD became more amazing to me.
Some days I would meet a dedicated and passionate staff member who has devoted their life and career to helping students and faculty with disabilities. Other days I would be introduced to a student or faculty member who uses the resources at RCPD. These students and faculty are among the most amazing people I have ever met. There are no obstacles too great and no task too difficult. They all embrace their disability and inspire those around them, such as myself, to live life to the fullest extent no matter what circumstances one may be presented with.
Finally, some days I had the pleasure of coming across a student who has never heard of RCPD. I would have the delight of being the first person to introduce them to this incredible place right on the MSU campus that many people are completely unaware of.
And now, that is what I get to continue to do everyday as the Harbinger editor and PR coordinator. After experiencing the commitment and dedication taking place at RCPD, I am so pleased to be able to help spread the word. This is not only a job to me. I love this office and the work they do and I am delighted to share this love with others.
In the coming year I have several goals, including increasing the media coverage of RCPD and the students and staff members with disabilities. In addition, I would like to strengthen the awareness and involvement of Tower Guard and the volunteer program at the office, increase campus awareness of the RCPD and those with whom they work, and raise the contribution level of the Persons with Disabilities Empowerment Fund.
I realize that these are big ambitions for a single person in one year, but I truly hope to be successful. RCPD is one of the leading college programs for students and faculty with disabilities and more people need to be aware of this asset and all the work that they do. Everyday RCPD is working on campus and in the East Lansing area to increase accessibility. The office mission is "Maximizing Ability and Opportunity" and that is what I hope to help promote and do.