Bridgit Chaisson named 2020 Volunteer of the Year

One of the main focuses of the Alumni Association is to provide quality engagement for our alumni locally and across the country. None of these activities would be possible if it weren’t for the help of our volunteers. Each year, the outgoing Alumni Association president names one of these volunteers as the Volunteer of the Year. The 2020 Alumni President’s Volunteer of the Year Award recipient is Bridgit Chaisson.

Originally from Lafayette, Chaisson ’94 studied criminal justice with a minor in business. Bridgit worked in the criminal justice field for over ten years. Also, Bridgit has more than fifteen years of experience as a real estate professional and is currently an agent with Latter & Blum. Bridgit is also partners with her husband, Daniel, in the travel industry as travel planners. We sat down with Bridgit to learn more about her time as a volunteer with the UL Lafayette Alumni Association.

Alumni: Congratulations on being named the 2020 Volunteer of the Year! When did you get involved with the Alumni Association?

Bridgit Chaisson: Over the years, my husband and I have attended the Christiana Smith African-American Alumni Chapter’s Sweet Sounds of Sharing annual fundraiser in support of scholarships for incoming freshmen and fifth-year seniors. In addition, we attend the Alumni Association’s Spring Gala annually, which honors community members and their commitment to the University. In 2018, I was seeking a new opportunity to serve our community. I reached out to a colleague on how to get involved, and my volunteerism began. I’m currently serving a three-year term on the Alumni Association Council.

A: Do you have any favorite memories from volunteering?

BC: Yes, I do! I’ve enjoyed volunteering for each Ragin’ Cajun Club and Alumni Chapter as my schedule permits. A few of my favorite events include the crawfish boils, tailgating events, and watch parties hosted by these Ragin’ Cajun Clubs and Alumni Chapters. At each of these events, I had the opportunity to make personal connections with current alumni and welcome new members. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to their stories about their connections to the University! I also would like to commend the Alumni Association staff and the presidents of the Ragin’ Cajun Clubs and Alumni Chapters for their hard work and dedication for planning these events!

A: What would you tell someone who is hesitant about coming to an Alumni Association event?

BC: I would encourage them to come and share in the experience. It is a great opportunity to make some personal connections with alumni and make some memorable moments. Our Alumni Association hosts several events throughout the year across the country! You can visit the Alumni Association’s website or social media pages to find events in your area.

A: Finally, do you have any life advice for recent graduates?

BC: My life advice is to put God first and pray without ceasing! Seek wise counsel and be a light to the next generation. Continue writing your story daily, and you will undoubtedly walk into your purpose.

Photo Caption: Bridgit Chaisson smiles with her degree from UL Lafayette, formerly known as University of Southwestern Louisiana. (Photo Credit: Courtney Bergeron / University of Louisiana at Lafayette)