SUMMER 2012 21
Alison Buckley ’91 After graduating, Alison Buckley served as Class Secretary partly because it helped her stay in touch with classmates while in graduate school in Ireland. She returned to the United States and settled in Philadelphia, where she connected with the local chapter and started to see the benefit of networking with alumnae from all decades. She welcomed the chance to be Chapter President. “I knew I was needed and appreciated. It was a time when others weren’t able to make a leadership commitment. I wanted to give back, and when I couldn’t write the big check, I gave in other ways,” she said.
Alison has worked in higher education as an adjunct professor and administrator since the late 1990s and has served on the Association board in several positions.
By the end of 2010, she needed to prioritize and trim back on her volunteer obligations. In addition to her Association responsibilities and work commitments, she served on the board of two different community theatres and a non-profit theatre company dedicated to productions that highlight women artists. “The College has remained on my priority list over other causes I felt equally as passionate about because it gives me a sense of immediate reward.” Attending chapter meetings and Leadership Council, she found ways to connect with alumnae and students that were fulfilling but not time-intensive. “Whenever I attended a College event, I always felt it was time well spent. I left with more energy than I came with. My motivations have changed over time,” she continued. “But what I value the most is the network of friends around the globe I developed by volunteering.”
“. . . what I value the most is the network of friends around the globe I developed by volunteering.” — Alison Buckley ’91
Arielle Orem ’11 As a young alumna, Arielle Orem ’11 discovered that serving as the Chair of Student Engagement and on the Reunion Planning committee is an extension of her communications degree.
In addition to working at the College, she enjoys coordinating programs for alumnae and alumni to support the current students and meeting alumnae who return to campus. “Young alumnae and alumni may not yet understand the benefits of attending a chapter event or how to plug in to the alumnae and alumni network. The best way to start is to get around others who are passionate about the College,” she began. “Come to events, attend Reunion, and share your experiences and memories with those who graduated before you. I have met so many impressive alumnae who are willing to help with career advice or relocation to their city when I am ready. It’s all about connecting.”
As Class Secretary, she enjoys gettting news from her classmates first-hand. She can share in and support them in their joys and challenges. “I’m fairly certain that my involvement in the Association was a real positive when I applied to graduate school. Volunteerism and leadership carried a lot of weight,” said Arielle. n
“Young alumnae and alumni may not yet understand the benefits of attending a chapter event or how to plug in to the alumnae and alumni network. The best way to start is to get around others who are
Above: Martha Martin Field ’56 and Alison Buckley ’91 share an idea with other alumnae at a committee meeting.
passionate about the College.” — Arielle Orem ’11
Left: Arielle Orem ’11 has planned events to encourage young alumnae to meet others who might offer career advice or help with relocating.
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