Cynthia “Cindy” Whitman began her life journey in Fairbanks, Alaska. She was the fourth of six children. Being part of a large family helped to develop her skills in teamwork and a deep understanding of the importance of family. Much of Cindy’s family time was spent outdoors camping, picnicking, and playing creative group games with family and friends. A love for singing, dancing and challenging card games was also developed during this time. Cindy has continued to enjoy these activities, with her own family throughout her life in Sumner, Washington.

Learning has always been a driving force for Cindy. While in elementary school she had the opportunity to assist other children in lower grades with reading and math. It was during this time she discovered her passion for helping others. During her high school years she participated in choir, drama, and church activities among other challenging scholastic studies. Later Cindy attended Highline Community College in Des Moines, Washington where she received her Associate of Arts degree in 1988. She is currently enrolled in Western Washington University’s Human Service Program and will graduate in the fall of 2004.

During her breaks from formal learning Cindy learned from the school of life. Much of her time was spent in different volunteer positions within her church community. Cindy has developed leadership skills while working with primary age children, youth, and adults. She has been a girl’s camp leader, chorus director, a young women’s leader and community awareness leader. Teaching is another love she has developed through dedicating herself as a Sunday school, Spiritual Living and Family Education teacher. Through these learning opportunities Cindy has embraced personal growth and developed a sense of accomplishment while being in service to others.

Cindy has twenty-five years of customer service experience through her different career choices. She has learned that “Customer service is not a department….it’s an attitude”. Cindy currently works for the Auburn Senior Activity Center in Auburn, Washington. This is where she has found her calling in life: To develop and coordinate programs that help to enrich senior adult’s lives. Cindy is certified to facilitate a class on “Living Healthy with a Chronic Conditions”, which helps to empower seniors with the tools to live life to the fullest. She also coordinates the Meals on Wheels program for the homebound seniors in the Auburn community enabling them to stay independent. Working on a daily basis with a dedicated senior volunteer force is a very challenging and rewarding experience. Being a part of this community is an inspiration to Cindy that what you give to your community will forever make a difference. It reinforces that the learning process is never ending. Cindy will strive daily in her professional and personal life to continue to learn and to make a difference!