By J.D. Rottweiler, Ph.D.
The great physicist Sir Isaac Newton has a law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
As a sociologist, I have a human version of that theory: For every good deed, the impact on others is immeasurable.
In other words, human actions have ripple effects.
We celebrated some of those effects at the college’s second Hall of Fame induction this month. Friends and family gathered to honor the actions of three inductees who impacted students, colleagues, and, ultimately, the community.
Long-time foundation board member Mark Battaglia has both assisted donors to the college and helped grow those assets into funds that provide scholarships for students every single year. The late art faculty Ray Levra was honored for his long-standing commitment to students and art faculty, as well as his role in making the Art Department a diverse and welcoming environment that offers quality learning experiences. Guests also highlighted the gutsy and energetic Dr. Mary Lee Shelden, who was tough on students who needed it and who played an important role in planting the seeds for some of the college’s programs, including academic testing and placement, Phi Theta Kappa honor society, the English as a Second Language program, and the rodeo team.
This year’s student graduation speaker was Brandon Butterfield, selected to address the Class of 2016 for both his academic success and community service. Together, Brandon and I focused our remarks on the theme of “paying it forward.” Brandon told of English faculty member Mary B. Coyle, who saw his potential and encouraged him to apply for a prestigious scholarship. Mary nurtured him through some academic challenges, and he received that scholarship, which is covering the tuition for his bachelor’s degree at an Arizona university.
Cause: Mary opened a door.
Effect: Brandon walked through it, and it’s anyone’s guess where that gift will lead him.
You already know that paying it forward can be about kindness. It’s also about making good decisions to benefit others in the future; sharing knowledge or wisdom like the faculty members described above; and conveying a positive attitude that impacts the day of those around you. And, yes, it can also be about money and giving in support of something that inspires you or creates a better future for others.
As another academic year closes, I leave you with this to consider. Since so much of what we do impacts other people, what door will you open for someone else?
JD Rottweiler, Ph.D.
J.D. Rottweiler is president of Cochise College. Contact him at jdr@cochise.edu.