Board Member Profile: Mark Egerman, Treasurer
This 21-year-old Massachusetts native rounds out the Board of Directors Executive Committee. As Treasurer he heads up the Finance Committee, one the most essential committees a non-profit can have. Currently pursuing degrees in History and Computer Science, Mark is heading into his second year on the board, but only his second month as Treasurer. We have the highest hopes for Mark and wish him the best in his new position.
What does the Finance Committee do?
The Finance Committee is responsible for working with the staff to come up with a budget, overseeing the finances of the center, keeping us solvent
How do you feel about your new position as Board Treasurer?
I accepted the position because I thought it was a chance to help the center. I do feel strongly that its something the center needs. It’s being the bad guy more often than not; it’s saying no you can’t [spend on that]. But I know its what the center needs.
How did you get involved with the Merton Center in the first place?
After September 11th we organized a peace rally [at CMU]. We began networking with other campuses and eventually the rallies got so big that the Center took notice. The Anti-war committee was revived and I started emceeing rallies and events. After an event with the Mennonite Church, knitting blankets for Afghanis, I was asked to be on the board. You could say my weaving got me here.
How has your board experience been so far?
Well, the Merton Center is the largest organization that I’ve ever worked with. I’ve learned a lot about how non-profits work and how they don’t. It has also introduced me to a community that I probably would never have worked with.
What do you think about Pittsburgh over all?
I really like this city in spite of everything. I spend my summers here and I’m thinking of staying after graduation. We do have a long way to go, but there is a lot of good work to be done and good people are doing it. There is a grit to this city…it’s a city for activists.
Any thoughts on college students and social justice?
I think college students have an important role to play in any social movement and it is my hope that students like all people, stand up for their beliefs and fight for justice.
Is there anything else you want to say to the membership?
I think the center is many things to many people. It is through the support of our members that we can do the things we do and I want to thank the membership for that. Also, the building looks wonderful; people should come check it out.
- Interview by Nia Edmondson
Mark Egerman, board treasurer. (Photo by Marie Skoczylas)