His plan included being active in campus organizations

As a computer specialist for the U.S. Attorney's office in Hammond, Chad Hunter, 29, has come a long way since his student-employee days behind the help desk in Purdue Calumet's main computer lab.

Hunter has been with the U.S. Attorney's office for seven years, beginning with a one-year internship his senior year at PUC. He handles user accounts, telecommunications and audio-visual support for trials.

He received his associate degree in computer programming and a bachelor's degree in computer networking from PUC in 1995 and 1997, respectively.

The East Chicago native was active in many student organizations including the Black Student Union; the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers; and Purdue Calumet's student newspaper, The Chronicle. He also used his time at PUC to develop his passion for community service. Even now as an alumni, he continues his involvement as the Purdue Calumet Alumni Association President.

Margaret Bacon, secretary in CTIS, described Hunter as "an extremely bright humanitarian. He's the kind of person who puts his money where his mouth is," she said.

Bacon said Hunter saw opportunities in the organizations on campus to make things happen. Last year, Hunter was awarded "Student Organization Advisor of the Year," by PUC.

"He's a catalyst," Bacon said. "His own enthusiasm is what gets people involved."

Hunter believes, "You cannot teach what you do not know. You cannot lead where you would not follow."