Giving back through supporting new students and building the Rochester legacy

Meet Chicago Network member and Alumni Interviewer Colin Theis ’04

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

For the last eighteen years, I’ve worked for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Council 31 representing unionized employees across a variety of public and private sector employers. I live in Chicago with my spouse, two young children, and our overly anxious dog.

What are your most cherished memories from your time at the University of Rochester?

There are so many things that I remember fondly from my time at the University. Everything from all-morning Saturday breakfasts at the Mt. Hope Diner, to my senior year living in the Community Living Center, Dandelion Day, and so many long nights in the depths of Rush Rhees.

How did campus life and any co-curricular involvement (clubs, organizations, teams, etc.) impact your personal and professional growth?

It was an amazing thing to have a diversity of clubs and activities to choose from. From Greek life, drama productions, and the UR Antiwar movement during my senior year, I was able to participate in so many activities that helped broaden my horizons. I was exposed to many new ideas and concepts that still inform some of my most fundamental beliefs.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

I grew up in a very small town in upstate NY. Coming to Rochester was truly eye-opening. Through my four years, I developed invaluable critical thinking and writing skills that have allowed me to pursue and thrive in my career. Living in Chicago was not one of my plans but after twenty years it is truly home, and I owe that to Rochester.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

After I had children, I was reflecting on the outsized impact of where one attends college has on future life choices. After navigating the college application process with little support, I thought if I could help prospective students find out whether Rochester was a good fit for them would be a good way to give back to a place that means so much to me. I’ve been a volunteer alumni interviewer for around five years, and it’s been great!

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

I absolutely encourage anyone who’s thinking about it to get involved! There are so many ways that you can get involved no matter how much time you have to spare.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

It’s a great feeling to give back to a place that’s done so much for me. I like feeling like I’m helping to shape the next freshman class to add to Rochester’s storied legacy.