Cody Fitch Gives Back Through Mentorship
Celebrating Alumni Impact during National Volunteer Week
We believe success comes full circle—and few stories reflect that more than iJAG alum Cody Fitch. In honor of National Volunteer Week, we’re proud to highlight Cody’s continued commitment to supporting students and strengthening iJAG Nation.
Today, Cody serves as a Lead, Document Fulfillment Specialist with Principal Financial Group, but his journey with iJAG began years earlier as a student at Saydel High School. Through iJAG, Cody was connected to internship opportunities at Principal during his junior and senior years… experiences that opened the door to a contractor role and eventually a full-time career. Now, more than six years into his professional journey, Cody is giving back to the program that helped shape his path.
For the past three years, Cody has volunteered as a mentor for iJAG’s 11th and 12th grade program at Saydel High School. Whether he’s visiting classrooms or leading mock interviews, he brings real-world insight and encouragement to students preparing for life after graduation.
How did you get involved with iJAG?
“I am a Saydel High School iJAG alum, where the program helped connect me with Principal Financial Group through internships during my junior and senior years. Those opportunities led to a contractor role and eventually a full-time position. I have now been with Principal for over six years and am proud to give back by volunteering with students through class visits and mock interviews, supporting the next generation, much like iJAG supported me.”
Why do you choose to give back through mentoring?
“I choose to give back because without iJAG, I’m not sure where I would be today. Being part of iJAG helped me build meaningful connections and grow both personally and professionally. I want to help students shape their futures the same way iJAG helped shape mine.”
Why is it important for others to get involved?
“I believe it’s important for everyone to get involved because iJAG is an incredible program and support system. They are always there to help and consistently do great things for students and the community. At the end of the day, we are all one family, and it’s important that we look out for one another.”
How have you seen iJAG impact the students you work with?
“I’ve seen iJAG help students gain confidence, build important life and career skills, and see possibilities they may not have realized before. The program gives students support, guidance, and real-world exposure that helps prepare them for their future and shows them they have people in their corner who genuinely care about their success.”
Cody’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are given the support, opportunities, and connections they need to succeed AND how meaningful it is when alumni return to lift up the next generation.
This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate and thank Cody and all iJAG volunteers who continue to invest in our students and our mission.