Volunteer Virtuoso: UT Senior Shines as Key Museum Team Member

The Brief

• A bustling University of Tampa fourth-year student finds moments to assist at an Ybor City museum.
• Sean Machado Guzman views volunteering as a way of life and derives satisfaction from the work itself.
• April is designated as National Volunteer Month.

TAMPA, Fla. - A busy University of Tampa a senior dedicates time to share his expertise, skills, and compassion to support a museum in Tampa.

The backstory

The University of Tampa senior majoring in Psychology, Sean Machado Guzman, doesn't let time go unused. He remains engaged whether he’s examining information or welcoming visitors, always looking for ways to contribute.

"Many activities involve community engagement, outreach efforts, content creation, data analysis, and greeting guests," explained Sean Machado Guzman, who volunteers at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts.

Over the last four years, Sean has dedicated his time every two weeks to volunteer at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts located in Ybor City.

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Guzman stated, "I'm always eager to keep myself busy." He added, "Volunteering turned out to be an excellent avenue for this. Indeed, I have been involved in it."

Dig deeper

However, for Guzman, it has never been about accolades. He states that the genuine satisfaction comes from the work itself.

I usually anticipate some form of compensation or reciprocation when I volunteer, but that has never applied to me," Guzman stated. "It’s simply satisfying to observe progress and know my efforts assist others, which subsequently motivates them to follow suit.

His dedication has not gone unobserved. The museum personnel mention that Guzman is an essential member of their group.

What they're saying

"Just gives and assists, always ready to go above and beyond, without genuinely expecting anything in return," stated Robin O'Dell, Executive Curator at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts.

READ: Faith-inspired initiative assists men battling addiction.

For Guzman, volunteering is not merely an activity but a way of life.

"I find this significant because I understand that I am having an impact. By utilizing my skills and assets, I contribute to the museum," Guzman stated.

Guzman serves as a prime illustration of how an individual's commitment can motivate an entire community.

The Source

The narrative for this piece was developed using data gathered by FOX 13 photojournalist Bryan Gray.

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