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eagles 4 life } Philanthropy and service are a huge part of life for EWU Alumni Association President Gina Mauro Campbell ‘90 and her husband, Connan Campbell ‘91. “Often, we have three things we can give: time, talent or treasure,” Gina said. “When we’re young, we often have more time and talent than treasure. I think alumni should listen to their hearts and give in whatever way they can, whether it be time or money, to an organization that resonates with them. If that’s EWU, fantastic! Eastern has always been a place where the impossible is possible. Providing scholarships to help students is a beautiful thing.” You can find Gina and Connan participating at alumni events, cheering on the Eagles at games and serving on various committees. In addition to the Alumni Association Board, Gina serves on the EWU Foundation Board and the Eastern magazine Editorial Board. Connan serves–––– as a regional volunteer officer for Sigma Nu, the fraternity he joined at EWU. You can also find them giving back in the broader community. As director of Visitor Services at Visit Spokane, Gina is extraordinarily connected throughout the region. She volunteers with Safety Net of Spokane, a nonprofit group that fundraises for youth aging out of the foster care system. She serves on the committee that helps plan Safety Net’s annual auction fundraiser, and she heads up the Annual Art Day for local artists and area foster youth to create art together. While Connan worked at Washington State University, he served many years as president and member on the Pullman YMCA Board. He was recently appointed director of Student Development at Spokane Community College, and is looking forward to local volunteer opportunities. “Giving back is just something that feels natural,” Connan said. “It’s a way to help others be successful.” Numerous community leaders and mentors who crossed Connan’s path throughout the years inspired him to be benevolent. Gina said her mother, who graduated from Eastern in 1972, is very compassionate and instilled in her the importance of helping others. At EWU, Gina enjoyed the philanthropic aspect of being an Alpha Phi. Her Eastern experience, which was enriched by the generosity of alumni and friends of Eastern, also inspired her. “I feel I’ve been very lucky, and my education has provided me with so much opportunity,” Gina said. “It’s important to help smooth the path for others. I truly believe that those who have been given a boost up along the way will look for ways to pay that forward.” thank you for giving it up 4 ewu } page 7