The Houston Airport System Volunteer Ambassador Program is a vital part of the airport community because the volunteer ambassadors helps to enhance the customer experience for the almost 55 million commercial passengers that pass through Houston Airports annually.

Margie Batangan began volunteering as an Airport Ambassador at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in November 2015. She had retired from MD Anderson where she enjoyed a successful career as a nurse and was looking for a volunteer opportunity that would allow her to help others. She happened to be traveling and ran into an old friend at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Elsa Dela Cruz who has served as an Airport Ambassador since May 2013.

“Elsa told me how she enjoyed volunteering with the airports, and I thought maybe it was something that I should try,” Batangan said. “It combines my love of travel and my love for people.”

Batangna decided to join the team and immediately began making a positive impact. She has been volunteering with the program for a few months and was getting ready to leave for the day when she saw yet another familiar face.

Ela Ghica, IAH Volunteer Program Manager, was conducting training for new ambassadors and one of the volunteers was someone Batangan knew well but had not seen in many years.

Elyse Sporkyn also was a nurse with MD Anderson and became close friends with Batangna but lost touch after retirement. “I was so happy to see my friend Margie and excited that we would be able to work together again,” she said.

The ladies exchanged numbers and often talk about their old times as well as the new adventures ahead.

“It is so rewarding to know that I am making a difference as an Airport Ambassador, and I get to interact with a diverse group of people,” said Elyse Sporkyn.

The Houston Airports Ambassador Program is a rewarding experience and only requires four hours each week. To learn more about how to volunteer with the airports, please click here.