Who is Jeff Shi?
Jeff Shi is a junior majoring in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. He currently serves as the Vice President of The Lion’s Pantry for the 2022-2023 academic year.
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The Lion’s Pantry Involvement:
- Vice President, 2022-2023
- Previously served as the Engagement Director and a Lion’s Pantry Ambassador
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Other Involvement and Extracurriculars:
- BMB Research
- The Daily Collegian
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Why did you decide to join The Lion’s Pantry team?
While volunteering as an Ambassador with the Lion’s Pantry, I felt a unique connection to the community of fellow Penn Staters that was exactly what I was looking for as a first-year student. I joined the Exec Board because I saw an opportunity to make bigger change that could make a lasting difference for future Penn State students.
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What is your role with The Lion’s Pantry? What are you looking forward to bringing or implementing to The Lion’s Pantry in the upcoming academic year?
I previously held the role of Engagement Director, where I planned weekly events for club members and organized workdays for volunteers. In my current role as Vice President, I hope to implement initiatives that will promote accessibility across campus for the resources that we offer. With the pantry set to complete renovations this summer, I see opportunities to reengage the community and develop an even stronger presence at Penn State.
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What is your favorite part about working with The Lion’s Pantry?
I remember the time a student recognized the Pantry T-shirt I was wearing and walked up to me, saying he was beyond grateful for the existence of The Pantry, as without it he would have struggled to get through the summer. The support from fellow students and community members is the most rewarding part of working with the Lion’s Pantry.
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What are you most looking forward to for the upcoming academic year with regard to your role with the Pantry?
Thanks to the Student Fee Board, The Pantry has received funds that will help to not only sustain its operations but rapidly accelerate its growth in new avenues. I hope to take into account the most urgent needs of our guests to make well-informed decisions and ensure that these new programs are both sustainable and inclusive.
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If you could talk to an incoming student interested in joining The Lion’s Pantry, what would you like them to know about this organization?
The pantry is not just a place to give back to the community, but it’s also a place for self-growth. We have many pathways to get involved and gain leadership experience, whether that be through joining our Ambassadors, Pantry Managers, Committees, or Exec Board. There’s a place for everyone at the Pantry.
