In the simplest terms, Neel Patel was drawn to SNF Paideia because of the values and mission. The SNF Paideia Program stands as a beacon for integrating wellness, service, citizenship, and dialogue with a mission to foster informed, engaged, and effective community members. This emphasis on civil discourse is what initially drew me in. To Neel, SNF Paideia is an opportunity to connect with and understand people looking to make a change, and, in this SAB position, he gets to support the many conversations happening on campus.
In his home communities, he has actively participated in community service initiatives and worked to encourage others in open dialogue. When coming to the University of Pennsylvania, he was very keen on bringing this mission with him to the broader community of Philadelphia. He sees being an SNF Paideia SAB member as part of his mission.