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02/18/2005: "CONDUIT MAN"

By Mary Kalbert

Eric Tubbs, a student at Skagit Valley Community College is a man with a mission. He looks around his apartment and points out the ten computers that he will repair and refit for students in the Adult Basic Education (ABE) program at the college.

A bootstrap success himself, Tubbs sees the opportunity to assist those in this program by recycling computers to give others a chance at economic success through education.

Tubbs smiles as he relates a story. One recipient received her GED and is now in a two year degree program with plans to continue her education to the four year level. Her donated computer has leveled the playing field. It has provided her with the tools to compete as an equal in the classroom as well as computer skills that will assist with employment opportunities.

Five years ago Tubbs was a drug and alcohol statistic. The ABE program, along with competent counseling and self motivation has turned his life around. His need to give back to the community led him to volunteer to be the "Conduit Man" for the computer recycling program initiated by San Juan Island Rotary Club.

A 2004 graduate of Skagit Valley College, Tubbs received a President's Award for Outstanding Scholar with a 3.99 GPA. He continues to work on his transfer degree in computer science with his eye on a possible tour in the Peace Corps after graduation.

Volunteerism is a way of life for Tubbs. The students in the ABE, the faculty of the college as well as the business men and women who have donated computers are happy to have the "Conduit Man" in their midst.