Meet the 2023 Student Leaders of the Common Good Grant Committee

• Introduce yourselves!

Kavi Sarna (KS): My name is Kavi Sarna (he/him), and I am a junior majoring in Computer Science and Mathematics with a minor in Government and Legal Studies.

Sophia Li (SL): I’m Sophia Li (she/her), a senior majoring in English and Asian Studies with a minor in Economics.

• Why did you originally get involved with Common Good Grant?

SL: I was introduced to Common Good Grant through the Polar Bears in Public Service program, which got me interested in the midcoast Maine non-profit landscape. CGG has helped me see the urgency and need for local philanthropic work, and how students like me can get involved. 

KS: I first learned about the Common Good Grant through my first-year proctor, Elise, who led the program during my freshman year. Having never been to Maine before coming to Bowdoin, I applied, thinking it would be a great way to learn about my local community and delve into the non-profit world.

• What’s been a highlight of the program during the time you have been involved?

KS: The highlight of the program for me is the award ceremony. Hearing about the impact that the awards will have from the leaders of the non-profits receiving them is always fantastic.

SL: One of my program highlights has been connecting with my now-host parents, who do incredible work at Harpswell Aging at Home (HAH). Shoutout to Surrey and Hugh!

• What’s going on with the student committee in fall 2023?

SL: This year’s committee has been interested in how different organizations approach rising housing and income inequality, especially as immigration continues to change local demographics. We’ve spoken with fantastic community leaders like Deb Keller (Bath Housing) and Ellen Billie (ProsperityME).  

KS: This year's program is off to a great start! We recently had a workshop led by Francie Tolan and Amy Dumont, who work in the development office. They spoke about 'The Art of the Ask' and provided some great advice on how to cultivate relationships with donors and alumni.

• What’s one skill you’ve cultivated during your time in the program?

KS: I would say the most important skill I have developed is the ability to ask good questions. Whether I am working to understand the impact our grant will have during a site visit, asking a panelist about their work, or gauging how the committee feels as we evaluate grants, asking insightful questions has been crucial.

SL: Leading and participating in the development subcommittee has helped me cultivate so many soft skills, and I’m looking forward to working with this year’s group as well. A hard skill that CGG has helped me practice: reading and evaluating 990’s!