The Clinton School of Public Service is proud to spotlight one of our most enthusiastic and long-serving volunteers, LaBethel J. Peters.
Peters has dedicated two decades to the Clinton Presidential Center and the Clinton School, embodying the spirit of community and the joy of service.
Peters brings an unwavering energy to her role at the Clinton School. Whether she is interacting with faculty and staff or greeting the next generation of public service leaders, her commitment to the school’s mission is evident the moment she walks through the door.
Her journey with the Clinton School began several years ago, and she still recalls the excitement and nerves of her first day.
“I had been given a list of rules to follow and was quite nervous because I wanted to do the right thing,” Peters recalled.
Since that first day, those nerves have transformed into a profound sense of purpose.
“Serving the public has become my passion,” Peters said. “Volunteering here at the Clinton School on a weekly basis, interacting with staff as well as students, has increased my passion even more. I have been called to serve, and I love it.”
Witnessing Transformation
One of Peters’ favorite aspects of volunteering is witnessing the growth of the students who walk through Sturgis Hall. Over the course of their two-year journey, she watches as they evolve from newcomers into professional leaders ready to change the world.
“To watch the transformation of the students from their arrival until graduation is amazing,” Peters said. “Interacting with them lends an opportunity to learn more about them personally, as well as gaining insight into the program itself. I’m interested in hearing about their future plans and get excited when some of them decide to stay and invest in Little Rock.”
When asked to describe the spirit of the Clinton School volunteers in one word, Peters chose “joyful.” For her, that joy comes from the opportunity to be among students who devote years of hard work to earning their Master of Public Service degree.
A Front-Row Seat to History
Over her two decades of service, Peters has witnessed many historic moments, but one graduation ceremony stands out above the rest.
“One event I will always cherish is the graduation exercise of a class that was held in front of the Clinton School,” she said. “President Clinton was the graduation speaker. To be a part of that event was simply amazing.”
Despite 20 years of volunteer experience, Peters said her enthusiasm remains the same as it was on day one.
“I’ve volunteered at the Clinton Presidential Center a total of 20 years and have not grown tired,” she said. “When I walked through the door at the Clinton School, my enthusiasm remained the same. I love the energy and the atmosphere.”