Has your company done something special to recognize Toastmasters? If so, please submit your story to Jackie Doehling, Public Relations Officer via the Contact form. We would love to post your story on the website. It is support like this that helps promote Toastmasters and the personal and professional growth of our members. When you see Kristine, be sure to congratulate her! If you work for Allianz Life, be sure to thank them for their support!

Story submitted by Kristine Campbell

Kristine Campbell (ACB, ALB) was awarded the Volunteer of the Quarter award, on December 19, 2008, by her employer, Allianz Life. Kristine has worked for Allianz Life for the past five years as a Business Analyst in the Web Services department. The award was presented at an employee meeting, in front of several hundred employees, including the CEO of the company. Kristine also performed at the meeting, singing a solo and leading a sing-a-long. She was accompanied on the keyboard by coworker, Dawn Rostomily.

The Volunteer of the Quarter award was established, by Allianz Life, to recognize employees who give of themselves to help others and improve the quality of life for our community.

Kristine was nominated for this award by Barbara LaBorde, Immediate Past President of the Stock Tockers Toastmasters club. Barbara had the following to say about nominating Kristine for this award:

“Kristine is the epitome of a Toastmaster—she truly embodies the mission of Toastmasters International by helping others to learn the arts of speaking, listening, and thinking… contributing to the betterment of mankind. Kristine is always so willing to help out her area clubs and specifically works tirelessly in promoting our Toastmasters club here at Allianz, StockTockers. She is never without a smile on her face or words of encouragement. I am so proud of all of Kristine’s many accomplishments.”

Stock Tockers is a corporate-sponsored club at Allianz Life. Some of the accomplishments that led to this award were Kristine’s leadership in the Stock Tockers club, mentorship of several new club members at various clubs, her term served as Area 54 Governor in 2007-2008 and her Area 54 Toastmaster of the Year award in 2006-2007. Kristine is currently an active member and leader in three clubs in the Twin Cities: Stock Tockers, Community Matters and Soaring Eagles.

Allan Bernard, Lt. Governor of Education and Training, was present at Allianz Life for the award presentation. He gave the following comments at the ceremony:

“Toastmasters is a worldwide organization dedicated to the improvement of its members’ communication and leadership skills. Kristine is an outstanding representative of Toastmasters, not just because of how she has improved herself, but because of how she has improved her community.”

Joan Watson, District 6 Governor, made the following comments after the awards ceremony:

“I am so proud of you. The time you generously give and dedication to Toastmasters in District 6, not only this year but for the last several years, has made a difference for many people. Your willingness to help clubs to grow strong and achieve their goals, as well as celebrate their success, is truly what Toastmasters is all about.”

Kristine earned a Volunteer of the Quarter certificate and a perk (worth a monetary value). On the certificate it says, “With this award, we acknowledge the countless hours you have dedicated to the Allianz chapter of Toastmasters International. You have graciously volunteered your time and expertise to help your Allianz coworkers speak with confidence and conviction. In addition, you have revitalized the Allianz Stock Tockers club, resulting in it being designated a Toastmasters Distinguished Club for several years.” In addition, Allianz Life donated $1,000 to Toastmasters International.

Kristine would like to say thank you to the Toastmasters members and friends who have helped her along the way. “I could not have gotten to where I am today without the education, support & encouragement provided by each of you!”