AAI volunteer service is a fantastic way to help our members connect with like-minded people who are helping to shape the future of both AAI and the field of immunology. Volunteer service activities bring our members together to tap the opportunities and tackle the challenges that confront immunologists and society.
Through service, our members help advance immunological discovery, inspire and sustain broad support for scientists and scientific research, and help AAI to inform the public of immunology’s impact on all aspects of health. We spoke to Chris Hunter, who was recently named a Distinguished Fellow of AAI, and Cherié Butts, Chair of the AAI Committee on Public Affairs, about their experience volunteering.
What have you been involved with as a volunteer?
Chris: So much! I’ve been a section editor for The Journal of Immunology, helped with the AAI Annual Meeting Program Committee, ran the summer courses, and I currently sit on the Awards Committee.
Cherié: I served on the Minority Affairs Committee, I was the AAI Representative to FASEB Finance Committee, and I currently serve on the Committee on Public Affairs.
What has been the biggest benefit to you of being a volunteer?
Chris: Career development has been a major benefit of being an AAI volunteer. Especially early on when this was the sort of metric that contributed to how tenure decisions were made. I’ve also just found it to be worthwhile. It’s good to be part of a community and feel like I was connected to other immunologists. AAI is an organization that is active in raising the profile of immunology. It’s a privilege to be involved.
Cherié: The great benefit to volunteering is working with fellow immunologists. Yes, you get to expand your network, learn from colleagues who work in different areas, gain new skills based on the focus of the volunteer activity, and serve as a leader of the organization, but it is the opportunity to build community that is most exciting.
Why did you decide to volunteer?
Chris: Initially I am not sure I did volunteer. AAI were always pro-active about asking members to volunteer, and I always appreciated the opportunity. I do not think I ever said no to any request.
Cherié: AAI is my favorite society (don’t tell the others!) and I believe it is critical to give back to organizations that invested in you. I have had the opportunity to work work in academia, government, and industry, and I believe that sharing insight on how research is conducted in different sectors is of value to the membership.
What would your advice be to other members who want to volunteer?
Chris: The opportunities that come with being an AAI volunteer represent chances to spread your wings, develop new skills, and gain insights into how a science association like AAI works. Jump in – the water is lovely!
Cherié: Be open to volunteering in areas that may not be your expertise. I was not sure about what to expect as AAI representative to the FASEB Finance Committee but found it to be most rewarding and now apply these skills to other endeavors.
If you are an AAI member, visit the Volunteer Portal today to find out how you can make a difference.
