Saint Thomas says he has enjoyed exposure to guest speakers from among HEAF’s network of volunteers and supporters. Reflecting on his time so far at HEAF, he says participating in Book Club last summer and learning about food insecurity are two things that have had the biggest impact on him.

“During the HEAF Open House I attended more than three years ago, I was immediately impressed by the inquisitiveness, hunger and drive of the students,” Petiri says. “That coupled with the energy and enthusiasm of the staff told me everything I needed to know — it was an immediate match.”

Petiri says he is proud to participate in classroom activities, to volunteer with colleagues and to spend time tutoring HEAF students because he knows these enrichment activities help bridge education and opportunity gaps: “The early exposure to business concepts and specific industries provide insight that can help structure a path for HEAF students to clearly pursue their goals.”

Building one-on-one relationships with HEAF’s students, staff and fellow volunteers has been a highlight for Petiri and he credits extra-curricular events like HEAF’s annual Film Screening with fostering less transactional, more meaningful discussions and connections than typically occur at networking events.

As an active member of HEAF’s Associate Board, Petiri plays a central role in helping develop and implement meaningful experiences for HEAF students leveraging all that the organization’s volunteers can bring to the table.