June 2024 Volunteer of the Month
Andrew Cashman
Asst. Vice President
SPI Researchers
My role at PBSA:
I volunteer as the Co-Chair of the US Council Provider Advisory Group along with the amazing Robin Watkins. We lead this group with the agenda to add a voice for the Provider sector of the association and to help find industry solutions for Provider, CRA, and End User members alike.
Why I wanted to volunteer with PBSA:
Giving back is the simple answer. I’ve been a member of PBSA since they started. The experience and professional network I’ve gained by volunteering has been very valuable for my career. I volunteered because I wanted to help and understand the association on a deeper level. It has been a great experience! Within my attempt to “give back” the value has multiplied for me.
What I do when not at work:
I have a 4 1/2-year-old son and I spend most of my time in awe of him. I am also a hack guitar player and I like to dabble in song writing.
What I'm reading:
Refer to the last question and understand that my love of personal reading has been on pause for about 4 1/2 years. However, when reading to my son I have discovered there is magic in some children’s books that can be enchanting for adults on personal or professional levels. Try “Wherever You Go” by Pat Zietlow Miller, you may find some inspiration and comfort.
Favorite website, podcast, blogs, etc.:
Criminal (Vox Media) hosted by Phoebe Judge. It tells criminal justice stories from multiple angles. It can get deep, and it can be light. Podcasts are best for me on road trips, especially the six hours from Cleveland to Arlington when I drive down for the mid-year conference.
On my desk right now (books, personal items, etc.):
My favorite item is the Marshall smart speaker Patti McGowan gave to me at our holiday party in 2023. SPI gave a wrapped gift to every employee that day and it symbolizes why I love working here.