Making a Difference Through Math: Arch Volunteers Supporting the Next Generation

Volunteers are at the heart of our programs, helping students build confidence in math and explore new possibilities for their futures. At Arch, that commitment to giving back is a natural extension of the company’s culture. Three Arch volunteers, Sam Nolley, Nora Benanti, and Caolan Kovach-Orr, have contributed their time across several of our programs, including Math Motivators, STEM Stars, and the Modeling the Future Challenge, bringing their passion for math and mentoring directly to students.

For these volunteers, the motivation to give back is deeply personal. Sam sees volunteering to “pay forward the help” he has received throughout his own life. Working with students from elementary school through college has been especially energizing for him. “It shows me that the future is bright,” he says. Nora shares a similar perspective, emphasizing the role that math education can play in expanding opportunities for students. As she explains, “A foundational understanding of math can open doors to many exciting opportunities for students, and I wanted to be a small help in keeping those doors open.”

Caolan also sees volunteering to continue the cycle of mentorship that shaped his own career. Through Modeling the Future Challenge, he enjoys working with students who are exploring predictive modeling and analytics for the first time. “It’s exciting to see a younger generation starting down this road and bringing fresh perspectives,” he says. For him, mentoring is about helping students discover solutions on their own and experience the excitement that comes from solving a challenging problem.

Volunteerism is also strongly supported within Arch’s corporate culture. Programs like volunteer time off, charitable donation matching, and grants for employee-nominated causes empower employees to make a positive difference in their communities. Nora notes that Arch lives its value of striving to make a difference by encouraging employees to volunteer and connect more deeply with their communities.

For actuaries, volunteering often comes naturally. Their professional experience solving complex problems translates well into mentoring students. Nora notes that actuaries understand the importance of preparing for challenging exams and can share valuable strategies with students. Similarly, Caolan draws on his background in analytics and predictive modeling to help students think critically about real-world problems.

Sam also points out that programs like those we offer help students better understand the actuarial career path early on. “Be an actuary, it’s a great career,” he says, noting that it becomes much easier for students if they enter college already aware of the classes, exams, and internships that can help them succeed. Programs like STEM Stars and Math Motivators help build that awareness while supporting students no matter what career they ultimately pursue.

Ultimately, all three volunteers hope students leave these programs with something lasting: confidence, curiosity, and the excitement of tackling difficult challenges. As Caolan explains, “I hope they take away an excitement to solve hard problems and a bit of structure on how one can make a difference.” Through the dedication of volunteers like Sam, Nora, and Caolan, students gain more than academic support, they gain mentors who encourage them to see the possibilities ahead and believe in their ability to reach them.