Volunteer Christopher Gillyard ’08

Christopher Gillyard graduated from Amherst in 2008, a double-major in Asian Languages & Civilizations and Theater & Dance. He was captain of the football team and the first player to major in either of those disciplines. Chris is currently a senior account development manager at NEC National Security Systems. He has been volunteering for Amherst since shortly after graduation, and now serves as president of the Amherst Society for Black Alumni as well as telecast coordinator for the Amherst Association of Washington, DC.

How did you get started volunteering for Amherst?

After moving to Washington, DC, in 2009, I found myself running into Amherst alumni without realizing they were in the area. To assist in connecting our local alumni community, I created the current Amherst Alumni DC Facebook group. This led to my entrance into the Amherst Association of Washington, DC. 

Why do you volunteer with Amherst College?

Outside of wanting constant connection with my fellow Mammoths post-graduation, I heard stories of people who didn’t enjoy their Amherst experience. This saddened me given my positive experience and the considerable resources Amherst has to give. I thought the best way I could help was by creating a pathway of communication between alums and the College to address the challenges hindering students from having their best experience possible.

What is your favorite part of volunteering with Amherst?

Creating opportunities for Amherst community members to connect despite our busy and challenging adult lives brings me the most joy.

What would you say to someone considering a volunteer opportunity with Amherst?

There are many ways to volunteer and support—it’s not one-size-fits-all, so find what works for you. If you long for the stimulating conversations you once had in the halls of our college on the hill, volunteering provides a ready path to reconnect with those who are illuminating the world.