Lucas Malo has been a part of the Brandeis community for 16 years, starting out in Community Living before taking over as the Director of Community Service, where he helps Brandeis students give back to Waltham and around Massachusetts.

Tell us a little bit about your background.

I was born in Maine, but grew up traveling the world as my father was in the Air Force. I went to St. Michael’s College in Burlington, Vermont, for my undergrad and then got my Masters in Social Work from the University of Maine. I began at Brandeis 16 years ago as an Area Coordinator and then transitioned into my current role. I thrive on change and innovation and take pride on the progress of community engagement at Brandeis and am fortunate to work with an amazing team and students. Every day, I say that I have the best job on campus. 

What is your main role at Brandeis?

As the Director of Community Service, I take pride in being a connector between Brandeis and the local community helping to align unmet needs with student skill and interest.  Although I often find my role as thinking strategically I truly love getting to know students and community members and helping to learn something new about themselves and the world around us. I am inspired each and every day by our students and dedicate my role to ensure their voices, along with the community, are uplifted. 

How did you first get involved in community service? What made you want to pursue it for a living? 

My first volunteer experience was in high school as a friendly visitor at a nursing home.  In college, I oversaw the Brandeis Buddies programs, visited two assisting living homes, prepared meals as a shelter, tutored at the Boys and Girls Club every week, ran the Canteen at Blood Drives and participated in eight alternative breaks trips.  The foundation of my leadership on campus was as a service club leader and through reflection and mentoring from the Director of Community Service at Brandeis I solidified my values and passion for this work. 

What work have you done in the past with student-athletes and Brandeis teams?

As a former varsity athlete in high school (Cross Country and Tennis) I understand the time commitment and dedication our athletes have, yet they still make time for community engagement work.  Whether it is organizing a collection drive, hosting a team at Relay for Life, registering to vote, or creating inclusive teams. In the past, I have facilitated training, attended sporting events, played in Hoops for Haiti, and even competed in intramurals.  Every time I connect with athletes, I feel the sense of community and spirit they have and am inspired that it aligns with that of the City of Waltham. 

How can current student-athletes take advantage of what you are offering them?

There is an opportunity for everyone to engage in their community, whether organized with your team or on your own, there is a volunteer program that will align with your schedule, personal or career interest.  As athletes, we could use your support in logging your hours in the Commitment to Service Award Program. This helps Athletics demonstrate their commitment to social justice and helps to advance our collective work, awards and resources for Brandeis. If you are looking to get involved please never hesitate to reach out to me at lmalo@brandeis.edu. 

What are your interests beyond Brandeis? 

I am a proud dad of a 3- and 7-year-old who keep me busy.  Outside of quality time with family and friends, I love spending time on the lake, kayaking, cooking, bargain shopping, running, playing board games or binging on Netflix and candy!