The Importance of Public Service

I believe the power of one individual can truly make a difference in the lives of many. I’ve spent almost a decade in public service, including five years as an elected public official. I must admit that I take some pride in the fact that I have successfully avoided becoming seen as one of those pompous politicos who populate the corridors of power in our state and national capitals, or at least I hope I have.

But no matter how hard I try to convince myself that I’m just a humble public servant, I am continually reminded by the people I meet that some of our best public servants have never been elected to public office or hold the prestigious title. I recently met such a model citizen in Alfa Lopez.

Alfa’s story is one in a very long line of immigrant stories that stretch back for hundreds of years–each one sharing much in common with the others, but each one also unique and uniquely American. Alfa Lopez is a 37-year-old on-air personality on the Lehigh Valley’s Spanish-language radio stations. She was born in the Dominican Republic, and she came to the United States at the age of eighteen. Alfa’s morning show is unlike so many others on our airwaves today. She views her show as an opportunity to give her listeners not just sources of information, but also a source of inspiration.

When I look at the life of Alfa Lopez and see how she has chosen to make the most of her radio career, I see the real thing. Her service is not driven by ratings, but because her listeners know that she is genuine, she gets the ratings.

Alfa understands and respects the power of her medium. She realizes that her influence is growing as she becomes known as the voice of the Hispanic community. Despite the evidence to the contrary, she doesn’t think of herself as a popular figure holding a powerful position. In a very real sense, Alfa Lopez is a true public servant, much more than she is a media personality. In her work, she reflects the very best aspects of what makes a true public servant.

She is selfless, she is focused on helping others, and she is committed to improving her community. As I continue to serve the public, Alfa Lopez will be one of those people will look to as a role model. The time I spent with her in her cramped office in Allentown, Pennsylvania will always be reminder to me of how I should serve.

It’s not about the power, the perks, or the prestige. It’s about the ability to make a real difference to all those that I have the honor to serve–especially those who have no advocate or voice of their own. I believe the power of one individual truly can make a difference in the lives of men.

Since 2009 Rob Wonderling has been President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, which promotes growth and economic development in the 11-county Greater Philadelphia region. From 2002 to 2009, Rob served in the Pennsylvania State Senate, where he first served as Chairman of the Communications and Technology Committee and then as Chairman of the Transportation Committee. He also served in the executive branch of state government in the Ridge-Schweiker administration as Deputy Secretary of Transportation.