Shannon Wright P ’32, PFA ACT/SAT Testing Support Co-Chair
Volunteering is a remarkable way to give back to your community while experiencing the joy of making a positive impact. At Punahou, we have a unique opportunity to do just that, and I am proud to serve as the Co-Chair for ACT/SAT Testing Support.
Punahou is one of the testing centers on O‘ahu for the ACT and SAT standardized tests. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment for students who are on Punahou campus to take the test. We facilitate the ACT and SAT testing registration check-in not only for Punahou students, but also to assist students from other schools who come to Punahou campus to take the test. We assemble a team of volunteers who generously donate their time and effort on early Saturday mornings in the fall and spring. As part of the Parent Faculty Association, these volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring that the students’ initial testing experience runs as smoothly as possible.
Our ACT/SAT committee was formed during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic when students needed extra support while on campus. With masking and health requirements in place, it became essential to have a dedicated team of volunteers to assist students before taking the test. This committee not only ensured adherence to health guidelines but also provided much-needed support and reassurance to students during that uncertain time.
It was a tremendous help to the students, reducing stress and uncertainty during a challenging period. The warm greetings from volunteers were helpful even after the pandemic restrictions abated. When Punahou faculty suggested we keep the committee going after the pandemic, we were thrilled to continue. We were all in agreement that the PFA ACT/SAT committee was a benefit to ease the stress of students checking in and finding their testing rooms.
Volunteering creates a ripple effect, benefiting individuals and the community at large. It’s not just about making a difference; it’s about being the difference. If you’ve ever considered volunteering at Punahou but haven’t taken the leap, I encourage you to explore opportunities, whether with our group or elsewhere at Punahou. Moreover, volunteering introduces you to a diverse group of like-minded individuals who share a passion for giving back. It’s a wonderful opportunity to create new friendships and be part of a community dedicated to making a positive change.
Beyond Punahou, I also volunteer as a baseball and basketball coach year-round. Coaching these enthusiastic kids goes beyond sports; it’s about instilling values, fostering teamwork, and helping them develop into responsible, resilient individuals. It reminds me of the importance of mentorship and the impact we can make in shaping young lives.
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Join the ACT/SAT Committee and volunteer at any of our upcoming events. Our next events are on Saturday, October 7 and Saturday, December 2. Please sign up here: https://signup.com/go/bkhLgHR