For Lane Rogers, a UNI sophomore, a desire to serve the community began in high school.

While helping the National Honor Society at Hudson High School put on a Turkey Trot, he discovered that fundraising and outreach were something he truly enjoyed. As he explored college options, he realized, “I want to carry this sense of fulfillment into my professional career.” 

Rogers looked for a “people-oriented major” and initially considered going to a community college to study hospitality. But when a UNI staff member told him about the recreation, tourism and nonprofit leadership (RTNL) major, he quickly enrolled at UNI. 

With the multi-faceted RTNL major, Rogers discovered the various RTNL courses let him “dabble in everything.” The Foundations of the Nonprofit Sector course taught by Julianne Gassman opened his eyes to the needs of nonprofits and encouraged him to pursue a nonprofit focus. The broad range of RTNL courses also led him to declare a certificate in youth work in religious settings.

Rogers is loving his time as an RTNL major, specifically the closeness of the community. “The small department is nice because you get to know your professors and peers well; group projects aren’t awkward because you have familiarity with everybody,” he says. 

Adding to his classroom experience is his participation in multiple student organizations across campus, such as Panther Ambassadors, BASIC (a campus ministry) and the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance (NLA). Rogers joined NLA in his first semester as a “scared freshman,” he says, but found himself quickly welcomed into the community. Through learning skills, making friends and serving the Cedar Valley, Rogers calls his time with NLA “fantastic.”  

Others appreciate his work as well.  According to Kristina Kofoot,  assistant director of community engagement, “Lane is a wonderful student to work with. He has a true passion for serving the community and supporting fellow students. I'm excited to see what the future holds for him.”

Rogers is currently the NLA student director of community engagement, which has given him the opportunity to apply classroom skills in professional settings. Some of these skills include: organization, professionalism, knowing how to get messages across and staying motivated. In spring 2025, he received the UNI Community Engagement Award for a student organization/student group project for efforts with the NLA. 

As he looks to the future, Rogers hopes to work in a nonprofit youth program that focuses on marginalized communities. He cannot wait to finish his RTNL degree and find a fulfilling career in the nonprofit sector.