Alumnae Reconnect with YWLA Community at Annual Luncheon
On December 16, 2021, laughter echoed through the gymnasium as YWLA alumnae gathered to reconnect and share stories at the YWLA Alumnae luncheon. Forty-nine alumnae from the classes of 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018 returned to campus to partake in this annual Cardinal tradition. While some alumnae had stayed in touch with their classmates since leaving YWLA, for others this luncheon was the first time they had seen their sisters since graduation. Many faculty and staff also joined in the celebration, and the alumnae were thrilled to see their favorite teachers again.
The luncheon began with updates from Delia McLerran, M. Ed., Head of Schools, and Regina Arzamendi, M. Ed., Principal, regarding the state of the school, the 2021 National Blue Ribbon Award, and status of the long-awaited renovation that will reinvigorate the historic campus.
As luncheon also serves as an opportunity to gather feedback from graduates to improve programs for current students, the group was then segmented by graduating class. Each forum was led by a faculty advisor and guided by questions regarding campus life, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on their college experience, and their family and financial responsibilities. Crucially, alumnae also shared the degree to which they felt YWLA had prepared them for university and how the school can continue to improve its student’s college readiness. Due to the highly diverse student body of YWLA, some students expressed that they had been surprised at how little diversity was present at their current institutions. They suggested preparing future graduates for the possibility of a similar experience, and encouraging them to reach out to formal programs and informal networks to help them get and stay connected on campus.
As the luncheon came to a close, the group parted with hugs and promises to keep in touch. The caliber of community created and sustained by YWLA is a testament to the school’s continued impact on its graduates and its ability to transform lives through education.
