Panel discussion to feature trustees on civic engagement
Skidmore will tap the expertise and experience of four of its trustees for a special panel discussion on volunteerism and civic responsibility on Wednesday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m. in Gannett Auditorium. Titled "Civic Engagement 101: A Conversation with the Trustees," the event is sponsored by the Skidmore Civic Fellows, a group of faculty members working to highlight the role of civic engagement within a liberal arts education.
The experience of the trustee panelists ranges from international human rights and national professional organizations to volunteer firefighting, school advocacy, and service to Skidmore. Below are brief descriptions of the panelists.
Julianne Cartwright Traylor '68, is a former chairperson of Amnesty International USA and a founding member (1978) of the non-governmental organization Human Rights Advocates, which has consultative status at the United Nations. She has been an active volunteer within the Skidmore community, with activities ranging from mentoring students to participating in reunion planning. Skidmore awarded her an honorary doctorate for her human rights work in 2001.
Polly Skogsberg Kisiel '62, is a highly active Skidmore volunteer who has served as class president, officer of the Boston alumni club, chair of her 20th reunion, and regional chair for the Wide Horizon Campaign. As a trustee, she has been chair of the Advancement Committee and a member of the Creative Thought. Bold Promise Campaign Executive Committee. Outside Skidmore, she has served a number of organizations, including the Boston Children's Museum and the Penikese Island School, an innovative, 35-year-old school for troubled teens. She received Skidmore's Outstanding Service Award in 1997.
Andrew Hughes '92, is an independent marketing consultant who has served on the board of the National Association of Securities Professionals. The association continues the strides made by women and people of color in the financial industry and provides educational tools for youth interested in the financial field. Hughes has also served on the board of the Portledge School, a college preparatory school in Locust Valley, N.Y. At Skidmore, he has been a class, reunion, and admissions volunteer.
Antonio Mojica '02, is vice president of Iberia Bank and a 16-hour-per-week volunteer firefighter in Alief, Texas. He is active with the Latino Bankers Association, the National Society for Hispanic MBAs, and the Adelante Mentorship Program. While at Skidmore, he volunteered for a federally funded program that replaced outdated appliances with energy-efficient versions for low-income families, among other activities.
"This is a rare opportunity for our students to hear about civic responsibility from the very individuals who form the volunteer backbone of Skidmore College," said Janet Casey, director of the First-Year Experience and professor of English. "These men and women give of themselves every day, in a variety of ways, and are role models and resources for faculty and students alike. We are delighted that they have agreed to share their views and experiences."
