Connecting through Virginia Alumni Chapters

Connecting Through Virginia Alumni Chapters

Channeling The Great Gatsby at The Cavalier, a newly restored period hotel. A behind-thescenes vineyard tour with wine tastings straight from the barrel. Networking with a side of karaoke.

No matter the setting, MBU chapter gatherings in Staunton, Roanoke, Richmond, and Hampton Roads bring alumni together for fun, fellowship, and building connections.

Over the past year, dedicated alumni volunteers and the Office of Alumni Engagement have worked to create a wealth of events that highlight MBU’s vibrant alumni community and let former students know how to get involved with Mary Baldwin and current students.

“Mary Baldwin alumni have a legacy of connecting with each other to continue the Baldwin experience long after graduation,” said Amy Davenport, associate director of alumni engagement. “From this vibrant historical legacy the MBU Alumni Chapters tagline was born: Connect. Collaborate. Celebrate.”

This initiative aims to grow and sustain alumni-led chapters with support from the MBU alumni office. In addition to events, the office has also developed a strategic plan and infrastructure guides for chapters, and it serves as the campus liaison with the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

“I am so excited to see the momentum that Alumni Engagement has been able to establish with local chapters in such a short time,” said Jules Moss ’92, president-elect of the Alumni Board and chair of the Engagement Committee. “I look forward to the committee continuing to work with Amy to expand our chapters nationally and bring diverse and exciting programs and events to our alumni.” To learn more about alumni chapters or how to help plan a gathering, please reach out to Davenport at adavenport@marybaldwin.edu.

The RoanokeMBU Chapter celebrates come rain or shine: (l-r) Mallory Churning ’08, Katy Cookston ’08, Ginny Savage ’69, Betsy McLeod ’02, Rae Cable ’92, Jessie Pretz ’10, and Amy Davenport, associate director of alumni engagement.

“As a Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership graduate, I had the honor of meeting a former Alumni Board member who served as an advocate of the corps during its inception and creation. It was incredible to be able to thank her for her support and leadership.”

— Mallory Churning ’08

Clair Carter Bell ’76 (l), 2018 Alumni Award recipient, and Dana Flanders ’82 (r) chat during a private tour and wine tasting with at Barren Ridge Vineyards in Fishersville.

“I love attending Mary Baldwin chapter events to see old friends and to meet younger alumni and learn about their experiences and what they are doing after graduation.”

— Clair Carter Bell ’76

Tatiana Bryant ’17 (l) and current student Shawnee Lee ’19 get the best of both worlds at a Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Alumni Chapter event: karaoke plus networking. Lee was able to meet local professionals in counseling, criminal justice, and real estate.

“What motivates me most to stay connected with my fellow squirrels is not only supporting and encouraging one another, but also working to better assist current students in their journey.” — Tatiana Bryant ’17