How I make a difference: Markel Quarles
As the assistant vice president for student affairs and student services, Dr. Markel Quarles loves "to be part of a campus community that inspires people to achieve their dreams every day." Originally from San Luis Obispo, Dr. Quarles will celebrate his seventh anniversary with CSUB in August.
Dr. Quarles volunteers at his church, Living Victory Church, where he is part of the senior leadership team:
"As part of our outreach efforts, I’ve been involved with the Mission at Kern County. The Mission provides food, shelter, clothing, education, and spiritual enrichment for their participants."
Why he became involved:
"I believe in the importance of providing hope, tools and resources for people looking to get back on their feet. Initially, I got involved through my church, playing piano and singing as part of a monthly service we hosted (before the pandemic). That evolved into participating in some of their events, where I got a chance to learn some of the residents’ stories and meet other community supporters who I had met through my work at CSUB."
Why is it important for CSUB to serve its communities?
"It’s important that CSUB serve its communities as it is part of our collective responsibility. We are interdependent. The success of CSUB is intimately tied into the success of our surrounding communities. As our communities rise, so does CSUB. And as CSUB rises, so should our communities."
Learn more about the Mission at Kern County here
"We all need help at some point in our lives. Truth be told, many of us are only one major life event away from being homeless and unable to provide for our basic needs. I am grateful to those who offered me a bed to sleep in, a hot meal, and other support when I needed it the most. Whether we’re struggling or thriving, we all make up the elaborate fabric of this community. These are our neighbors, colleagues and loved ones."