By Lilly Steger
This article was originally featured in the 2020-2021 Annual Report issue of the Laurel. To read the full issue click here. To opt in to receiving The Laurel click here.
Mike Rosser, Colorado State ’61 - National SeriousFun Advisor
At the 64th National Convention last July, Phi Kappa Tau formally established a new volunteer role; the National SeriousFun Advisor. Championed by National President Dale Holland, Kent State ’87, the SeriousFun Advisor role is meant to establish an ongoing national volunteer position to push and develop SeriousFun initiatives within the Fraternity.
The first person to hold the new National SeriousFun Advisor position is Mike Rosser, Colorado State ’61. “My goal is to build a campaign that will energize undergraduate members and alumni to volunteer at the camps as well as financially support Newman’s legacy,” Mike said.
One of Mike’s primary goals is to develop the relationship between undergraduates and SeriousFun by getting them more involved. “For undergraduate purposes, it’s a great opportunity to work with a good organization and get medical exposure,” Mike said. “My wife – she’s a doctor – she’s looked at so many intern applications over the years. Working at SeriousFun always catches her eye.”
Campers on a high ropes course.
The myriad of opportunities SeriousFun offers to undergraduates is a serious consideration in why undergraduates should consider applying to volunteer. “You learn exposure on the ground of the challenges people have,” Mike explained. “It’s so beneficial for so many careers – pre-med, any biological science, psychology, psychiatry, you name it.”
But SeriousFun is much more than a career opportunity. For Mike, it’s something he would have directly benefited from as a boy. “I was born with a congenital club foot,” he shared. “The camps I went to in the late 40s and early 50s were not accommodating to someone with a handicap. I had a good experience, but I personally know and understand the benefits of a program like SeriousFun.”
Mike took a trip to his nearest camp earlier this year – Roundup River Ranch in Gypsum, CO. “Roundup River Ranch really blew me away the first time I went,” Mike shared. “It’s a remarkable program and the people that work there are great. They’re helpful, engaged, and enthusiastic. It’s a remarkable program to be involved with.”
A rock painted by a camper.
The long-term benefit is how SeriousFun pushes challenges kids and builds their confidence. “Every time you fail and go after it again is a lesson. Pretty soon, you know how to conquer that challenge,” Mike said. “Those things build on themselves.”
“I am overwhelmed by the depth and the breadth of the organization and what they do for children with various illnesses and physical handicaps,” Mike said of SeriousFun.
Mike wants to highlight a lifelong commitment not just to Phi Tau, but to SeriousFun as well. “It’s our commitment as part of our national philanthropy,” he said. “These camps need people, even if it’s washing dishes. It’s a great opportunity to get out and help. We can help both our young men and the children at SeriousFun.”
Visit phikappatau.org/philanthropy or seriousfun.org for more information.