Future in service

Magazine cutouts, newspaper clippings and a framed check line the wall of senior Lenny Zaleski's bedroom – testimonials of his impact on communities and organizations through public service.

“When things get tough, it's important to remember why you do what you do,” said the communication and political science double major.

His service journey began as a first-year student with AmeriCorps at UD, establishing partnerships with Dayton-based nonprofits. His subsequent roles span environmental advocacy at the Ohio Environmental Council, accessibility technology work in London through UD's London Flyers Honors program, strategic communications with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Washington, D.C., and fair housing initiatives at the city of Dayton's human relations council where his volunteer efforts earned him an unexpected stipend – the check that now decorates his bedroom wall.

“I didn’t expect it,” Zaleski said. “I was honored.”

Though Zaleski's diverse experiences could fill an entire alumni magazine issue, he finds that his most meaningful work happens locally — from helping crisis housing residents register to vote through YWCA Dayton to participating in both the Statehouse Civic Scholars and Dayton Civic Scholars programs.

“Dayton's a really cool city with a lot of grit and determination," he said. "Getting a frontline seat to that resilience has been incredible.”

In August 2024, he helped establish a local chapter of All Aboard Ohio, a public transportation advocacy group. The first meeting drew 30 attendees and media coverage.

“I see public transit as both necessary for addressing climate change and as a chance to connect more people in an increasingly isolated world,” he said.

The Chicago native credits UD's experiential learning and faculty mentorship, particularly from communication associate professor Jee Hee Han and political science associate professor Li-Yin Liu, for helping forge his path. “Without their help and my family's support, I'm not sure I'd be as motivated as I am,” he said.

“I see public transit as both necessary for addressing climate change and as a chance to connect more people in an increasingly isolated world.”

Looking ahead, Zaleski plans to pursue a master's in public administration at UD while considering applying his experience to larger cities like his hometown and beyond.

“I don't think there's a better feeling than helping people,” he said. “If it's going to have a net positive impact, then I'm really happy to do it.”

A version of this article appears in print in the Winter 2024-45 University of Dayton Magazine. EXPLORE THE ISSUE — MORE ONLINE