by Xypher Pino

What does the phrase “be the reason” mean to you? There can be many interpretations of this simple phrase, and each individual analyzes the statement in their own unique way – one person might view it as an indication to act and make change, another might see it as a calling to make others smile. With every perspective, the definition of be the reason differs, yet no interpretation is ever wrong. Greensboro College’s Civic Leadership Program (CLP) bases its mission and values on the belief that every person should have an equal opportunity at living a happy life. To achieve this goal, CLP believes that people in society must be the reason – be the reason someone keeps going, be the reason for happiness, be the reason for positive change in the world.

Our world today is full of violence and hate – as each day goes by, we only get more polarized. What we need to do, now more than ever, is to unite and support each other, not fight and divide. I founded CLP last year because I was tired of watching all the division happen – it was time to act and make a difference. I have been blessed with opportunities throughout my college career, and I have been able to make a positive impact in my community as a result; I wanted to give others the same chance to give back. CLP provides a platform for students who show great interest in involving themselves in an active civic life. Through interactive workshops and hands-on civic engagement opportunities, CLP’s Civic Engagement Ambassadors are able to develop their leadership skills and explore their civic identity. More importantly, they learn what it truly means to help the underserved and educate their peers on the importance of being civically active.

CLP’s motto, be the reason, is meant to be an encouraging message for others to take responsibility for spreading good energy and kindness through action, instead of waiting for the change to come from somewhere else. “Be the reason means that I made an impact or difference in some way because I chose to be selfless first,” according to Payton Bell, co-head of CLP. “You can finish the sentence in so many different ways, but you can only be the reason if you take action to make a change.” Explaining the phrase differs on whom you ask, but the overall message is always the same – we, as good citizens of society, must become the cause and inspiration to create positive change in the lives of others, especially those who are less fortunate and underserved.

“Civic engagement allows you to learn a deeper part of yourself. Supporting and providing for others is a broad explanation of what civic engagement is, but more importantly it gives people a path to find meaning in their community. It teaches others important values in life and why we should be humble and grateful every day,” states Bell. Privilege should never be taken for granted – it is very easy to just focus on oneself and act selfishly, but doing so contributes to the toxic individualistic culture that the US is built upon. This is one of the core values of CLP – in order to truly be in service to others, one must separate desires from the self. There is nothing more important in life than helping those who are in need; we must use our privilege for the benefit of others.

After a competitive application and interview process, CLP welcomes four new students to the program. These individuals expressed great interest in exploring their civic identity and demonstrated high potential in being strong civic leaders. Meet Emilee Adams, Arthur Colon, Ashlie Linker and Kaylyn Pageot: your 2025-2026 Civic Engagement Ambassadors.

Emilee Adams is a junior political science major with a minor in sociology of human services. Growing up in Winston-Salem, N.C., Adams witnessed first-hand the social and economic issues plaguing our societies. “There is a severe lack of assistance available to help those in need,” Adams said. “I want to help build up low-income neighborhoods similar to my own through programs aimed at fighting poverty and supporting education to help break generational cycles. I believe the Civic Leadership Program can help me become an even stronger force in my community. I joined the program because I want to have a hand in solving the problems in our society.” Adams’ passion for bettering her community is very inspiring; CLP hopes to empower her to make change and give her the opportunity to start her lifelong journey of civic engagement.

Arthur Colon is a sophomore graphic design major, minoring in business administration, communications and humanities. “I am looking forward to discovering different perspectives and collaborating on civic projects for the community,” Colon stated when asked what he is most excited about with CLP. Colon also emphasized that he is looking forward to gaining tangible skills from the program. As the ambassadors go through the program, they will learn a lot about their civic identity, but they will also receive invaluable skills applicable to any future endeavor – from networking, organizing events, public speaking – CLP is an organization that allows individuals to develop many aspects of themselves.

Ashlie Linker is a freshman exercise science major and is a member of GC’s women’s soccer team. Linker wanted to join the program because she “wanted to be more involved on campus and be able to give back to the community.” “I feel that this program will allow me to make an impact on the community, grow as a person and strengthen my critical thinking skills,” Linker added. During the interview process, Linker demonstrated genuine care for others and unselfish enthusiasm. She is the type of person CLP is most definitely looking for – someone who is excited to learn, ready to contribute unselfishly and always striving for the best. In her application, she noted, “I have a strong desire to give back to my community and participate in programs that help people in need. I am determined to be the best version of myself!”

Kaylyn Pageot is a freshman majoring in business and administration. She is a member of GC’s women’s lacrosse team. Pageot is excited to “learn more about the GC community and to host events” and that she is “ready to help the community and get involved with helping others.” In her short time here at GC, Pageot took no time getting involved on campus. Already, she has volunteered for the GC Pride Pantry, is an official Student Ambassador and an active member of GC NAMI. CLP is looking forward to working with someone who is not afraid to put in the work and ready to make immediate impact in their community.

Our organization is very excited to continue our work this school year. After a very successful launch last year, we are ready to build on our successes and make an even greater impact. Bell states, “We accomplished many things last year and we are raising the bar even higher this year. We know what our program can do, and what the GC community can do. We are very excited to see where we can make an impact this year. Eventually, the Civic Leadership Program hopes to be the face of civic engagement at Greensboro College. To become the beacon of civic life will take years to build, but we are eager to provide opportunities and empower individuals; we want to show the world that, despite all the negativity, many still care and want to be the reason that our world becomes a better place.