What inspires you to remain so engaged with Rice?
I continue to be drawn to Rice University because of the incredibly talented individuals with unconventional wisdom that are associated with this institution. These individuals embody the values of responsibility, integrity, community and excellence, which are ideals that I personally embrace. Fellow alumni also inspire me by their remarkable achievements as well as potential.
How have you evolved in your Rice journey since receiving the award?
Since receiving the Builders Award, I have gained a stronger perspective of how alumni activities operate outside the Austin area. Serving as part of the planning team for the Rice Volunteer Leaders Conference in 2018, I interacted with alumni volunteers from different Affinity and Regional Groups, developing an understanding of their goals, struggles, and perspectives. Although I previously supported large-scale events such as class reunions and centennial efforts, I had a larger role in supporting the Rice Volunteer Leaders Conference. This experience allowed me to transition from focusing solely on young alumni activities.
Leonard’s advice:
Young alumni need to realize that being part of the Rice alumni community is not simply continuing existing relationships but also building new relationships. For majority of trusted friends that I have in the Rice alumni community, I did not actually know them when I was an undergraduate on campus even if we were students together. As the Rice experience provides the foundation for tying a community together, no matter the graduation year, young alumni should not be intimidated by more veteran alumni. Young alumni should participate in Rice-affiliated activities from services events to trivia nights, as they provide an avenue for alumni to grow together.
What’s next for you?
Being back in Houston area since 2018, I have been able to work more directly alongside with students and plan to continue to do so moving forward. Several programs on campus such as the Center for Civic Leadership, Center for Transforming Data to Knowledge, and others allow students to apply their knowledge to real world problems. These programs allow interaction between students, faculty, and community members. I believe I provide additional value as an alumnus when mentoring students through these programs.