Dear Alumnae

How grateful I am to be writing to you today as part of the Alverno community. In the short time since I took over at the helm of Alumnae Relations, I have already experienced what many refer to as the sense of family here. There is a camaraderie at this school — from freshmen to faculty, from academic advisory to alumnae — that is palpable. Everyone drops what they’re doing to pause, breathe, and join in morning prayer… and when I literally drop something (as happens often), an obliging friend is there to pick it up. Students display respect for faculty and staff, but there is also no pretense about swinging open the door to an office for a quick chat between classes. And I love that. The collective attitude here is one of, ‘come on in, tell me how I can help you, we’re all in this together.’ Such a welcoming sentiment, especially for someone like me: the product of a fellow all-girls school, whose knowledge of Alverno was previously limited to what the old, non-regulation softball field looked like. (As a hitting pitcher for one of the rival area teams, I had mixed feelings about the “if the ball rolls up the hill into the parking lot, it’s a home run” rule) Oh, how my heart is happy every time I look out onto the new athletic fields! What a moment in time to have joined the Alverno family — as we celebrate the school’s 60th Anniversary, we also celebrate all that can be found at the intersection of tradition and change. Rooted firmly in our commitment to spirit, service, and sisterhood, we set our gaze on a horizon full of opportunity… New and beautiful facilities, new and challenging class offerings, new faces and positions on campus to broaden student support. To all of these, we open the door and say, ‘come on in.’ And yet, with the chance to rejoice also comes the chance to reflect. Moving forward is more meaningful — and, often, easier — with a little perspective on your side. Alverno urges its students to “Be who you imagine.” This includes you, alumnae. Your journey as an empowered Alverno woman didn’t end when you graduated. On the contrary, it is here that your journey to becoming who you imagine only began. That is why I want to hear from YOU. Not only where life finds you now, but also how Alverno helped you get there. As alumnae, you understand this school in a different, and very special, way than I do. I want to learn what it is about Alverno that you love — and perhaps even what you don’t. It is my goal in this new position to help you feel better connected: to us, to each other, to campus, and to the current students writing their own chapter in Alverno history. After all, we’re here for the kids. We’re here to make sure they get the education, the opportunities, the confidence, and the tools to make their mark at Alverno — and beyond. Please share with me your feedback, your memories, your ideas, your achievements, and your hopes for the Alumnae program moving forward. It is my goal, first and foremost, to make sure you feel heard, valued, and connected to your Alma Mater. Most importantly, I ask that you please make sure we have your current and correct email address on file. IMPORTANT NOTE:

They say it takes a village to raise a child; a year to learn one’s job; and a particular brand of nutty to ‘go back’ to high school. Well, let me tell you — we are raising some very empowered young women at Alverno; I’ve learned more in seven months than I ever could have imagined/anticipated; and I feel blessed to walk this campus every day (minus the 20-lb backpack that appears to be the timeless hallmark of student life). Thank you for welcoming me into this family, and for giving me some grace as I learn the Alverno way. Go Jaguars!

Gratefully,

Selena Mone Director of Alumnae Relations and Advancement

In an effort to move toward a more sustainable future, the alumnae magazine will now be published in digital format. Alverno remains committed to preserving and honoring our environment; we hope you will continue to enjoy this content as we share it electronically. To ensure delivery of future material, please feel free to send me an email with your contact information: smone@alvernoheights.org.