Volunteer Spotlight: Cynde Palmer

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. - Aesop

When asked to describe Graland parent and volunteer Cynde Palmer, some used descriptive words such as “thoughtful,” “energetic,” “warm,” and “kind.” Others used phrases such as “she does little things that make a big impact” and “she will always help in any way that she can!”

Long before Cynde ever became a Graland parent and volunteer, she secretly hoped that her children would one day be students at Graland. So, as soon as her twins Amelia ’26 and Hazel ’26 became students, Cynde did not waste any time getting involved at the school.

During a typical school year, you will find Cynde lending a helping hand, wherever is needed, with a smile. Over the years, Cynde has been a volunteer at the Graland Gallop, the VOA Snowflake Party, GPA outreach events, faculty and staff appreciation breakfasts, and potluck dinners. In addition, she has chaired the Graland Cares event, has been a warm and welcoming face in both the classroom and lunchroom, and is a frequent attendee at GPA meetings.

For Cynde, it is not about the number of events she attends but the connections she makes when she gets there. “Directly working with the kiddos is my absolute most treasured role,” Cynde shared. “The major bonus is working alongside supportive teachers, resulting in a deeper community connection. Realistically, the day will come when my children ask me to stop volunteering; coincidentally, this is the same day I learn to sneak around campus,” Cynde joked.

If you are looking for new ways to get involved in the school community, Cynde will tell you the sky’s the limit! “There are numerous ways to participate, be it in-person or acting behind the scenes. Volunteering provides the perfect route of trying out various roles while making lasting friendships along the way. So choose your interests and get in there!” Cynde said.

This year, Cynde is looking forward to volunteering on campus again and making up for lost time through reconnection and in-person events. To learn more about the different ways to get involved at Graland through the GPA, please visit graland.org/GPA.