Thomas (T.J.) Horwood, M.Ed. '02Â
Currently Resides In: Canton, OH
Volunteer Position(s) with KSUAA: I have been volunteering for two years and currently serve as the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter president.
Why is volunteering with KSUAA important to you? What motivates you to volunteer?
I wanted to help start the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter because I saw how Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State was committed to being a welcoming institution where all are valued. I am hoping the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter will create a space for alumni who identify as LGBTQ+ and our allies to connect with each other through social and networking activities. In addition, I would like for our chapter leaders and members to serve as ambassadors for LGBTQ+ issues to provide another alumni voice at the university and in the broader KSU community that extends across the world. Moreover, I would like to see our chapter help to create long-term, sustainable support for current students in terms of both moral support and financial giving to scholarships like the LGBTQ Emergency Fund.
Why did you choose to attend Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State?
Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State felt like home since I had spent a lot of time there visiting friends while I was an undergraduate student, so it was a natural choice for graduate school and the Higher Education program was top notch!
What are your favorite memories at Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State?
My favorite memories at Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State were working out at the rec center, grad nights out in downtown Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ and hanging out at Susan's Coffee with my classmates.
What is your favorite event you participated in as a volunteer?
I have been truly inspired by the stories I heard from students at Lavender Graduation ceremonies and wondered what I could do as an alum to help them navigate the world beyond Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ State. The LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter is one way that my fellow alumni and I can demonstrate our support.
What is your proudest accomplishment(s) as a volunteer?
My proudest accomplishment as a volunteer is getting the LGBTQ+ Alumni Chapter up and running as an official chapter.
What advice would you share with someone looking to volunteer with KSUAA?
My advice would be to find a way you can get involved that really matches things about which you are passionate about.