Here are a few New Paltz faculty and staff who exemplify
how civic engagement enriches our lives, makes our
communities work better, and connects us in ways that
nothing else can:
Sara Pasti, Neil C. Trager Director of the
Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art
Apart from her tireless advocacy for the arts at The Dorsky,
Sara has served on the Beacon City Council for the past three
years. Sara comes from a family of volunteers, who all share a
simple but profound philosophy—if you care about your life and
want to make it the best it can be, then you will care about your
neighbors, your community, and the region in which you live.
Rose Rudnitski, Professor, Educational Studies
In addition to an incredibly full, varied, and distinguished career
in education—replete with more panels, councils, committees,
boards, and commissions than she can remember—Rose has
always found the time to volunteer on the New Paltz Ambulance
Rescue Squad. For 36 years, and counting. When asked about
such a record of achievement, Rose’s answer is plain and wise— giving is a value. And when you give back to the community and
help people, above and beyond what is required or expected, it
is possible to change the world.
Jim Lyons, Manager, Print & Mail Services
Jim came to community service through a very real emergency
—his wife’s heart attack. Calling 911, a friend in emergency
services responded quickly; however, it took almost 30 minutes
for an ambulance to arrive. Realizing that such vital services rely
on volunteers, Jim gladly joined the fray. For two and a half years,
he has served in the West Clinton Volunteer Fire Department,
where he trains approximately 20 hours a month. To Jim, giving
back and helping people in such a tangible way comes from a
very special place in his heart.
Kathleen Tobin Flusser (kt), Assistant Director, Center for
Research, Regional Education and Outreach (CRREO)
Like so many volunteers, kt grew up in an “engaged” family,
who believed that you make your world a better place by
engaging in community service. kt has put this credo into
action by serving on the New Paltz School Board since
2009 and working with the environmental group New Paltz
GreenWorks for three years. kt embraces the concept of
thinking globally and acting locally. One of her proudest
moments came when her 5th grade son addressed the
school board about environmental issues.
