When Ella joined Ferris AMA as a freshman, she was certain she wanted to be engaged. However, she did more than just fill a space; she laid the foundation for a completely new position. As the first Vice President of Community Impact, she has established the role and made a significant impact both at Ferris and beyond the organization.
Ella’s position is more than simply a title; it has become a passion. “I wanted to be more involved in AMA… It made sense to be someone who would set the groundwork for what this role would look like,” she says. This role was a fantastic fit for her because she loves the environment, community, and making other people feel welcome.
Choosing the Right Projects
How does Ella choose where to concentrate AMA’s efforts when there are so many areas and opportunities to give back? The level of impact was the deciding factor. “I really try to think big picture. What do I hope to see? What do other E-board members want to see?” she explains. Working together is important, and Ella gives top priority to initiatives that engage as many people as possible. “If it’s a situation where we could collaborate with another RSO, I typically put that above something that would just be an AMA or Ella thing. The more people we can involve, the more impact we will have.”
She also ensures that each project aligns with the objectives of the AMA chapter. When choosing between two potential initiatives, she asks herself, Which one will help AMA grow? “One event will push us a step forward in our chapter goals and also help the community, but the other is something that I would enjoy more but doesn’t contribute as much. I’m going to prioritize the one that helps our chapter goals,” she says. Her attention is not just on what is enjoyable. It’s about what will make an impression that lasts.
A Standout Moment in Leadership
Leading the production of a promotional film for the Animal Rescue Coalition of Mecosta County stands out as one of Ella’s favorite memories from her role. “We partnered with MCA, and I worked one-on-one with their president to plan it. I had the general idea, but MJ really put it all together,” she recalls. “Getting that final video and seeing the genuine pride that those at ARC had for their mission and their animals was something that really stuck with me.”
Making a video was not the only goal of this project. The goal was to use marketing to help a worthwhile cause. Observing the effects firsthand made Ella remember why she accepted this position in the first place.
How She Inspires Others to Get Involved
Getting AMA members to participate in service efforts is not always easy, but Ella knows how to make it exciting. “I really do my best to try to make these events seem fun and interesting, which they very much can be,” she says. By appealing to the AMA member’s creative and competitive nature, she makes service possibilities seem like something they want to do rather than something they should do.
“The more drive we have to do something for the community, the better the outcome will be. Initiatives where our members have genuine intentions and interest are where we will be able to create the best outcomes for ourselves and the community in general.”
Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth
It was challenging to assume a leadership position as a freshman, but Ella has gained a lot of leadership knowledge. Among her most important lessons learned? The strength of selflessness. “I have learned the benefits of doing something for others rather than myself,” she says.
She understands that students have hectic schedules and that finding time to participate in community events may be difficult. “I understand that people with busy schedules might not want to put aside an hour and a half of their free time to come paint rocks or do something like that if there’s not some sort of incentive,” she admits. “It is human nature to want to prioritize ourselves and our own time.” However, her experiences volunteering have been more rewarding than she ever imagined. “Sometimes taking a break to do something for the community is more rewarding than returning to my dorm and taking a nap or watching a show.”
The Legacy She Hopes to Leave
To Ella, success is more about AMA’s reputation in the years to come than what it does this year. “I hope people begin to associate AMA not only with marketing but as an RSO that cares about the community and its individuals,” she says. She wants AMA to be known throughout the university, not only in the business school.
Building stronger ties with RSOs outside of the College of Business has been one of her main objectives. “Connecting with RSOs like the Anti-Violence Association and PetSavers shows that we aren’t here just to market and make flyers but to get involved in the community and give back to Ferris and Big Rapids for all the opportunities and support they’ve given us over the years.”
Ultimately, she wants AMA to develop into a secure environment where students from various backgrounds are accepted. “I want us to be recognized as an RSO that consistently contributes to the community, even in minor ways.” Ella’s leadership is laying the groundwork for the potential of the VP of Community Impact position and proving that it’s never too early to take charge and change the world.
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