Eileen Deuell, Oasis Volunteer
Volunteer Spotlight
Hi! My name is Eileen Deuell. I was born in Toronto, Canada. I had an older brother and younger sister. I graduated from high school and college in Buffalo, NY. I received my degree in elementary education and then 30 years later I received my Master’s degree in Special Education from Syracuse University and went on to teach 3- & 4-year olds with special needs at North Syracuse. I have one son, one daughter, seven grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
When I retired in 2004, I knew I needed something to keep me occupied. A speaker at a retired teacher meeting spoke about Oasis and in October of that year I became a member and volunteer. My favorite thing about Oasis is the opportunity to meet and work with many people, several of which I have become good friends with. I also enjoy the variety of classes- especially history, book group, Spanish classes. I have also enjoyed volunteering at the front desk and on Leadership Team as well my term on the Advisory Council. I explain Oasis as a place for educational opportunities and social interaction. It is free to join and the cost of classes is minimal.
I play golf in the nice weather with people I met at Oasis. During the winter I bowl, go out for lunch, and enjoy walking in the snow. I have season tickets to Syracuse Stage (an Oasis partner) and the Rev Theater Co. in Auburn. I miss the concerts that Oasis used to have before Covid and look forward to their return in the future.
Eileen, you were my first “trainer” when I became a volunteer. Your kindness and attitude set the stage for me at Oasis. It’s a wonderful place to volunteer.
I was planning to register for the Spanish I class and then I read the description and became aware that prior knowledge of Spanish is required. What I wish is that a beginning class would be offered. I have checked the Oasis course catalog each time it is published in the hope that Spanish I would be offered. So when I read that prior knowledge is required I was very disappointed. Anyway just want to express my hope that a rank beginner’s course would be offered in the future.