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NAA Volunteer Spotlight:
Roxanne Gryder (C88)
 Occupation: Technical Assistant to the Vice President, Intel Corporation
Affiliation: NU Club of Portland (Oregon); President 2002-06, Treasurer 2006-present
How did you get involved as an NAA volunteer and how long have you been affiliated with this, or other, NAA organizations?
I moved to Oregon in 2000 and the Portland club reformed in 2001. A call went out to alums in the area who’d be interested in bringing the club back to life and I threw my hat in.
What was one of your most rewarding experiences as an alumni volunteer?
Talking with local members who are genuinely thrilled with the events the board puts together—hearing they’ve learned something new, met new people, and reconnected with Northwestern.
What keeps you involved with NAA?
I enjoy the people I’ve met through the club.
What are your other interests?
Quilting! I just got back from a quilting show in central Oregon.
How has your NAA experience benefited you personally and/or professionally?
Leaning what motivates people, especially when we’re all volunteers, is definitely helpful at work.
What advice would you give to an alumnus new to your area?
Attend club events and join the board if possible—it’s a great way to meet new people and learn about Portland from people who’ve lived here a while.
What advice would you give to an alumnus new to volunteering?
Don’t set unrealistic expectations for yourself or other volunteers—this is the job we do in our free time. Make sure you’re spending your time on the most important things—not things that don’t matter.
How often do you get back to campus? What brings you back?
Every few years—I try to get back for the leadership conference to reconnect with NU and share learnings with my fellow alumni leaders.
What is your favorite memory of Northwestern as a student?
There are too many great memories of NU! I couldn’t choose just one!
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