Community Service Corner: Big Brother and Big Sister of the Year

From Mary McEntee, Community Service:

The Big Brothers Big Sisters Annual Celebration took place on Thursday, April 21 in Centennial Hall of the Alumni Center. The event recognizes two Keene State College students who have served as a Big Brother or Sister. The event also recognizes two mentors from each of the area high schools.

Keene State College students serve as 20% of the 450 matches in Western New Hampshire. This year’s Keene State College Big Brother of the Year Award goes to Stephan Coppez. Stephan is honored to receive this award and says that he loves having an impact on a child’s life. Stephan was not involved in the community before coming to Keene State College. He joined Circle K (community service club) as a first year student and participated in a part-time AmeriCorps program completing 300 hours of service. As Publicity Chair for the Big Brothers Big Sisters club at KSC, Stephan spoke with high school students with disabilities at Monadnock Regional and told them of the obstacles he overcame to attend Keene State College after losing his sight. “I wanted to tell them that they can go to College as well”. Stephan is also participating in this year’s Annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake event on May 1. If you would like to donate to Stephan’s page please go to http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/steve-coppez/bowl-for-kids-sake-2011.

The Big Sister of the Year Award for Keene State College goes to Stacey Gorter. Stacey is a Biology major and Psychology minor with a 3.8 GPA. Stacey began her work study position with Big Brothers Big Sisters in September of 2009. She interviews potential Bigs, Littles and Parents. She conducts site visits to Littles at their schools. Stacey volunteers as a Big Sister and has been matched since 2009. Stacey is currently applying to AmeriCorps positions and plans to pursue a Master’s in Public Health and possibly a Ph.D.