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Anthony Shafron

An open mind is a pathway to civility. Anthony Shafron doesn’t just walk that path – he leads others to it.

“I encourage people to speak their minds and share their ideas,” said Anthony. “I demonstrate respect by creating an equal ground. I show that I care about their thoughts and feelings by actively listening.”

His nominator has observed the care, respect, and encouragement in Anthony’s work at the office of Career and Professional Development. “Anthony is most impressive when he is working with our customers,” he said.

“Whether it be students, their parents, or faculty, he always goes the extra mile to make sure their questions are answered and they get the information needed. He especially shines when talking with parents. He is so patient with them and calms their fears by reassuring them that their student will get the resources they need, all while kindly encouraging them to have their student reach out.

“Anthony’s natural curiosity and humble willingness to ask questions to learn more about the job” have made him a core contributor to the office, said his nominator. “I have watched Anthony grow into and excel in his role as a leader to all my student employees. He was promoted to student leader in his second year with us.

“Anthony seeks to serve in all situations and always seems to put others first. I can always count on him for anything, and he often reminds me of what I need to be doing!”

“Anthony is a great example to all my student employees, our co-workers and to me,” said his nominator. “He has taught me by example to have a more positive attitude and to take the time to go the extra mile. His positive attitude and fun-loving spirit are contagious.”

Anthony’s civility has also translated to leadership roles in his fraternity and in the university's Interfraternity Council – one of the largest in the nation – overseeing member programming for 29 campus chapters.

Anthony clearly values the relationships he has formed. “The highlight of my college experience is finding my lifelong friends that have supported me throughout my time here at Virginia Tech,” he said. “Without them, my experience would look a lot different.”

A first-generation college student and senior majoring in animal and poultry sciences, Anthony's passion is research, discovery, and creating new knowledge. A recipient of the John Lee Pratt Merit Scholarship for his outstanding academic ability and interest in animal nutrition, his current undergraduate research focuses on fatty acids in neonatal metabolism.

Anthony plans to attend graduate school with a concentration in animal nutrition, eventually completing doctoral work to contribute to commercial innovation.

Anthony said his research perspective is a foundation for practicing civility. “Things are always changing, and you can never expect an outcome or know what another individual is going to bring up,” he said. “Bringing an open mindset to tough conversation avoids expectations that could lead to negative thoughts if the conversation doesn't go as planned.”

I am honored to present the Aspire! Award for practice CIVILITY to Anthony Shafron.