My Name is Devin Noonan, a 2008 Elks Legacy scholar and your Elks Scholar Advisory Board President for 2015-2016. I graduated from Rutgers University in 2012 where I earned my Bachelors of Science in Sports Management and Psychology. I recently started my own company, The Noonan Group, where I provide a variety of services ranging from fundraising consulting to business and sales development. I know what you’re thinking, what does any of that have to do with sports management or psychology? Absolutely nothing, I’m one of those typical college grads who branched out into a totally different field post-graduation. So if you’re heading into your first semester or if you’re heading back for your last and still have no idea what you’d like to do, my advice to you is don’t panic! You’ll figure it out along the way.
My connection with the Elks started at a very young age as I hail from a long lineage of Elks. My grandfather is a past New York State President, so anytime we’d go to visit grandma and grandpa it undoubtedly meant making a stop at the Herkimer Elks Lodge. In my younger years, that meant drinking a few ice-cold Saranac root beers and devouring all the popcorn I could handle. Life was good. As I grew older, I started to truly understand the mission of the Elks and the impact that they have on their communities nationwide. I was fortunate enough, like you, to earn a scholarship to support my journey through college and help ease those burdensome student loans. I was also fortunate enough to join the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks upon turning 21, and I’m proud to say that I now have the opportunity to give back through the organization that gave me so much.
As I embark upon my second term as an at-large member of the SAB, I just want to express how thrilled I am to represent our community of scholars for another two years. It’s my privilege to work together with the Elks National Foundation and our board of scholars to continue to improve upon this incredible scholarship program. From meet-ups and service trips to Instagram takeovers and LinkedIn workshops, there are a ton of great opportunities and resources that we’re excited to bring to you this upcoming year.
For all of the scholars making your way back to school, I want to wish you the best of luck with the fall semester and hope that you continue to build upon your relationship with the Elks and your fellow Elks scholars throughout the school year.
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