HERTZ COMMUNITY
volunteer opportunities
The Hertz Foundation thrives because of the incredible contributions of our dedicated volunteers. By sharing your time and talent, you play a vital role in fostering our vibrant community of fellows and advancing our mission. Your commitment helps us provide unparalleled support to our fellows, from their academic journeys to their professional careers.
I’m ready to volunteerIndividual Roles
Community Representatives works with local Hertz community members in their geographical area to organize activities and events, building a network of volunteers across different regions, disciplines and age groups. Representatives also assist in recruiting participants for the annual summer workshop.
Mentors serve as a vital resource for both in-school and early career Hertz Fellows, offering guidance and support in a variety of areas. The program involves a time commitment with meetings before and during the summer workshop, and check-ins throughout the academic year. By participating, mentors can strengthen their communication and leadership skills, while also building meaningful and lasting relationships.
A thesis reviewer is a subject matter expert who reviews a doctoral thesis that has been nominated for the annual Hertz Thesis Prize. The Thesis Prize recognizes doctoral dissertations for their overall excellence and pertinence to high-impact applications of the physical sciences
An Innovation Hour speaker presents during one of the Hertz Foundation’s hour-long online programs over Zoom. These programs feature notable speakers, often including Hertz Fellows, who discuss a variety of topics ranging from the latest research in their field to career transitions.
A local event host organizes informal get-togethers for Hertz community members in their area. These events, such as happy hours or boat cruises, are a way for local fellows and their colleagues and families to connect and socialize.
Committee Roles
The Summer Workshop Committee is responsible for selecting speakers and assisting in the planning of the annual Hertz Summer Workshop, the signature event for the Hertz community. The workshop brings together Hertz Fellows and other members of the science and technology community for a challenging and enlightening three-day workshop—including an engineering challenge, engaging speakers and abundant networking opportunities.
The Prize Committee is responsible for establishing the criteria and selecting the recipients of the foundation’s various awards and recognition, such as the Newman Galas Entrepreneurial Initiative or the Raymond Sidney Volunteer Leadership Award. This role is crucial for recognizing the outstanding achievements of Hertz Fellows and other community members.
The Virtual Event Committee is responsible for developing virtual programming for the community. The foundation hosts various virtual events, such as Innovation Hours and workshops, to connect its community of fellows and provide opportunities for professional development and networking.
The Recruitment Committee supports the Hertz Fellowship application recruitment process including the publicity, outreach, and diversity, equity, and inclusion and driving ways for the broader community to get involved.
The Retreat Committees help to plan two retreats each year — typically one each on the east and west coast — to support the gathering of the in-school and early career Hertz Fellows. Planning typically takes place September to May and involves driving the agenda and event components and being the face of the event on the ground.
Ready to Volunteer?
We hope you’ll consider volunteering your time and talent to our strengthen the Hertz community. Please submit the form to express your interest, and we’ll be in touch to discuss the possibilities.
Chris Loose Named Board Member and Council Chair
Hertz Fellow Chris Loose works closely with volunteers who oversee the Hertz Fellowship’s renowned selection process, administer awards and prizes to Hertz Fellows, and facilitate connection, collaboration and mentoring within the Hertz community through events such as the annual Hertz Summer Workshop.
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