The Alumni Magazine for Worcester Polytechnic Institute. (WPI)
Issue link: http://wpialumnimag.epubxp.com/i/406282
28 Fall 2014 sion and will result in a return. That's the nature of his business experience." But it's not just strategy and fnancial expertise that Bradford delivers. It's empathy and heart, along with a narrative of hope. "It's a nice connection to see how you cannot lose sight of that kernel," says D'Amato, "whether it's justice or taking care of others or giving back to your community. I think he grew up with limited resources and has done well, and is giving back. It's a great story." BALANCE Bradford says his work with the food bank has brought a sense of balance to his life—from the days he was helping his parents de- liver food, to his years at WPI, and throughout his career— every piece of knowledge and experience he's picked up has helped fuel the next step. Add to that his work with GBFB and there's a deeper fulfllment and added sense of perspective. "I have this picture in my head with a set of scales and buckets hanging off in different directions," he says, "and if they're not all balanced, the scales tip over. I think everybody should have some cause or set of causes they can be deeply involved in and make a difference in. Where you can see the difference and feel the differ- ence. I think it makes you a better person." When Bradford's planning out the fnancial and business strate- gy of The Greater Boston Food Bank, he's not just looking at proft and loss statements, or saving money for the shareholders' sakes. In his leadership position with the largest hunger-relief organiza- tion in New England, it's all about feeding people. If he fnds a way to save the organization money, then more people—people like his own family when he was young—will have food that year. "I am fortunate to be where I am, given where I came from," says Bradford. "To be able to give back to an effort that I know is actu- ally making a difference, where I can see the tangible difference in lives, is just ridiculously fulflling." J