“At Randolph-Macon College, I learned how to work with different people, problem-solve, think strategically and organize effectively,” says Michael Loftin ’03, co-founder of 808 Cleanups, an environmental nonprofit organization in Hawaii. “My experiences at RMC helped me build the confidence I needed to succeed as an entrepreneur.”

Those experiences included an internship, a study-abroad trip, and classes taught by dedicated professors.

From D.C. to Germany
At a January Term internship in Washington, D.C., Loftin, who majored in political science and international relations, learned about the political process at the national level by shadowing staff at Senator Jim Inhofe’s office. Loftin attended bill hearings and saw firsthand the extensive research that goes into legislation.

“It was eye-opening to live and work in D.C.,” says Loftin. “The experience helped me fine-tune my interests going forward: staying engaged in politics but working in the nonprofit realm, where politics are integrated in operations. I saw how important it is for citizens to step up and take leadership.” Loftin credits Dean of Academic Affairs and Political Science Professor Lauren Bell with securing the internship. “She is an excellent professor who inspired me to build my interest in the political process,” he says. “We still keep in touch to this day.”

A study-abroad trip to Bonn Germany, in conjunction with a Model United Nations course taught by Political Science Professor Tom Badey, gave Loftin a global perspective on the world.

“I realized that people are much more alike than different,” he says. “I met students from all around the world on that trip—my first to Europe—and I could just feel the history around me. It was great that students from many cultures could work together.”

From Volunteer to Entrepreneur
After graduating from RMC, Loftin entered the Peace Corps, serving two years at the Montego Bay Marine Park Reserve in Jamaica. His projects there focused on restoring the bay’s ecosystem, and much of his time was spent working with local fishermen on a sustainable fisheries program. He also worked with schools and participated in outreach programs.

Loftin headed to Hawaii after his Peace Corps experience and soon transitioned into project management, leading a field crew in solar installations. In 2014, he co-founded 808 Cleanups, an environmental nonprofit committed to restoring Hawaii’s natural beauty by empowering volunteers to conduct decentralized cleanups.

“808 Cleanups came about when my friends and I saw the increase in damage to the environment: rocks and trees spray-painted on hiking trails; people burning pallets on the beach and leaving nails and broken glass; illegal dumping; and dirty streams,” he explains. “We wanted to make it as easy as possible for volunteers to take action, and to get the supplies they needed for cleanups. I believe everyone has the right to clean and safe public spaces, but we all have the responsibility to make it happen.” 

Through its two major programs (Adopt a Site; and Cleanup Events), 808 Cleanups has removed more than 350,000 pounds of rubbish throughout Hawaii. The organization now supports more than 15,000 volunteers.

Grit, Determination, Skills
Loftin, who keeps up with news about RMC through friends and social media, advises new Yellow Jackets to jump into college life with both feet.

“Whatever inspires you and gets you motivated, hold onto that idea and allow it to evolve,” he says.  “The work I do today was something I laid the groundwork for more than 20 years ago. Grit and determination, combined with the skills you learn at RMC, will bring you a lifetime of success.”