Scott Berndt

Senior Economics major, Sigma Phi Epsilon, MO ETA Chapter

Scott thought he’d simply volunteer and go home, but instead that first experience with Community Partnership of the Ozarks (CPO) has led to a passion for serving and opportunities to cultivate key leadership skills.

Making the most of his free time, Scott volunteers the hours he has to assist with CPO fundraising events by helping wherever is needed most.  After he was the only student volunteer to return to CPO for four weeks to help finish what was started during an MLK Day of Service, he recruited 25 of his Sigma Phi Epsilon brothers to help complete the construction of a miniature golf course, which is the centerpiece for CPO’s Golf Tournament.  As this fundraiser finances a major portion of CPO’s educational, drug prevention and community development projects, Scott’s dedication to seeing the job through to completion was a significant factor in the success of the fundraiser, says Will Carter, CPO Director of Communications.  Scott and his fraternity brothers have continued their service commitment by providing much needed manpower for this year’s miniature Golf Tournament as well as volunteering with the HOPE Connection event where they assist with set-up and meal service to Springfield’s homeless.

“I’ve learned that the more I put in to my volunteer experience, the more I get out of it in terms of tangible results and personal satisfaction.  Opportunities to coordinate, supervise and lead others have made the experience even more meaningful” says Scott.  As a great example of living the public affairs mission through community engagement and ethical leadership, we are proud to recognize Scott as the March 2015 Student Public Affairs Spotlight.