Dan Baum is one of those incredible individuals that I would not have had the opportunity to meet had it not been for Periclean Scholars. Dan is a graduate of Duke who stayed in the Raleigh-Durham area after graduation to make a splash at The Redwoods Group, a certified b-corporation that endowed the Periclean Scholars Alumni Association. Two Redwoods Group employees were selected to participate in the Zambia experience; they were selected on criteria that the Class of 2009 chose, including their adaptability to change, willingness to work with college students and Zambians, and dedication to the Periclean ideals. Dan exemplifies all of those, which is how I got so lucky as to meet him.
While in Zambia, Dan took his mission and role seriously. He stepped up as a leader and frequently led the group in discussions over lunch and dinner. He encouraged us to think critically about the impact of building in Zambia – why we were there, what were the implications of our work, and how we can make our contributions everlasting.
Dan gets it. He understands that he cannot have a life of privilege without immense gratitude and the impulse to give back. He has chosen a career that encourages service. By returning to Duke to get his MBA, Dan has made a statement that he wishes to exhibit these values at ever-higher levels on the corporate ladder – levels that are in dire need of Dan’s caring and compassionate view of the world as a global citizen.
Dan also understands the marathon journey, having run one himself. I know that his donation of $26.20 was no coincidence – that’s exactly $1.00 for every mile. I am so thankful that Dan will be supporting my journey toward support of the Periclean mission, as well as my journey toward 26.2 miles.
Thank you, Dan. (and Go Team Eagle!)
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