Grace Geiger, alumna of Pittsburg State University and of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority has been chosen to receive their “Generous Spirit” award.
The award was created to acknowledge an undergraduate member who possess certain qualities in accordance with Alpha Sigma Alpha’s “core value of generosity.” Lexi Carter, communications coordinator at Alpha Sigma Alpha described Geiger as a generous person that always gives back to the community
“She exemplifies character and concern for others while serving her community and living the creed of Alpha Sigma Alpha in all of her interactions,” Carter said.
Geiger currently works in Kansas City as a nurse in cardiothoracic surgery.
“It was a great honor to receive the award and I am thankful the sorority holds philanthropy as such a key part of the organization,” Geiger said. “… Alpha Sigma Alpha provided many opportunities to help give back to the community of Pittsburg and other organizations… Their commitment to service was the reason I decided to join the sorority.”
When she as a student at Pittsburg State, Geiger went on several volunteer missions to serve the local and the global community. During her senior year during spring break, she went to Kenya for a service mission.
“On all the mission trips I’ve been on, I always see a common theme: the people are truly joyful..,” Geiger said. “They do not have many material items, but their hearts are full. It is a reiteration that what matters most is not the most expensive items…These experiences put things into perspective and show the clear difference between wants and needs…The trip to Kenya taught me to see beauty in every situation.”
Geiger described her trip to Kenya as very rewarding, enjoyable and a life-changing experience.
“I had been to several other places outside of the US for mission trips, but I had not been to Africa before..,” Geiger said. “It was a great experience being able to spend time at the schools and with the people in the area.”
Geiger also added that she is passionate about traveling and getting to see new places, especially trips that give purpose to the travels.
“I have always enjoyed being active in the community and love being able to give back what I can.” Said Geiger.
Geiger also said that the reason why she decided to pursue nursing is because she felt like it was a career that she could make an impact every day.
“I may only be able to help a few people a day, but if I am able to affect one person’s life in a positive way then I know it is worth it..,” Geiger said. “From the day I began to pursue nursing, I knew it was the right path and I can’t imagine doing anything else.”
Geiger said that the great enjoyment in serving others put her on the path that led her to volunteer and give back to the community.
“Growing up community service was something I loved doing and that has expanded as I have gotten older to give back in other ways and travel further,” Geiger said. “I do feel like my faith has played a large influence in my life and the enjoyment of serving others.”