Spartans of UD - CJ Dean

Spartans of UD highlights what makes the University of Dubuque special - the people.

CJ Dean, of Poynette, Wisconsin, is a senior sport marketing and management major who partnered with two classmates to present "YMCA Active 60 Day," a poster presentation about volunteering with elementary and middle school students, during Apex: Celebration of Student Scholarship and Creativity. The event honors undergraduate student research, service learning, and creativity.

Your Apex poster was part of a group leadership project, right?

"Yes! Two of my other classmates and I had to come up with a way to give back to the community. We did so by spending a day with elementary and middle school kids and getting them active through playing games like kickball and dodgeball."

How does it feel to have an opportunity to share your work with the UD community through Apex?

"This is a special opportunity that I am very grateful for; the experience and lessons I've learned from this project make me a more confident leader. It was an honor to do the things my group was able to do and learn."

What do you hope people will take away from your poster presentation?

"I hope people can grab that giving back to a community doesn't mean you need to spend a whole lot of money or time on something. It can be as simple as spreading a message, volunteering, or spending time with someone. Even just showing a little effort goes a long way for your community."

What inspired you to major in sport marketing and management?

"I have a love for sports and for me it has become a way of life. Choosing this field allows me to have a professional and long-lasting career while still being surrounded by the things that I love to do and what I see brings so much value to this world."

In your opinion, what makes the University of Dubuque special?

"The University of Dubuque is special because of the people and the opportunities it offers for its students. Opportunities like the Apex presentation to having easy access to tutoring, UD makes it possible to be successful and continue growing. Besides the plethora of majors and minors to choose from here, you will find that the people here match the university. All the staff members here care about your success, and it will show."