Alumni A Commitment to Opportunity Across the United States, college students are increasingly struggling to meet their basic needs, and this growing crisis is no different at Moravian University and Theological Seminary. In response, alumni and supporters have created two new funds aimed at removing barriers and enabling students to fully engage in the college experience.
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aurie Riley Brubaker ’82 devoted her time to others. Balancing a robust career in the health insurance industry, active volunteerism and philanthropy as an alum, and a vibrant family life, she was “an absolute superwoman,” according to her husband, Lloyd, and children, Christopher and Jessica. “She was loving and caring and strong,” says Jessica.“I never realized how hard she worked because she was such an amazing mom.” Jessica says her mother gave to others every chance she could. Jessica recalls a holiday shopping trip, Laurie hopping out of the car at every street corner to hand out bags of food to the homeless. These kind acts were a way of life for Laurie, who created a sense of community throughout her life. “She always had people in her corner,” Christopher remembers.“I think they were always drawn to her. She was so kind and so positive, and you just wanted to be around her.” Even Laurie’s cancer diagnosis did not dim her light or her drive. The bonds she formed continued to bless her family even after her passing, particularly the lifelong relationships she maintained with the four roommates she met her first day on Moravian’s campus.“They’ve continued to support us in her absence and stayed
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very close to us,” shares Christopher. “It’s a testament to the strength of those friendships and the community they formed at Moravian.” The Power of Opportunity “Laurie deeply believed in the transformative power of opportunity— how if someone is given support and the right resources, they can find success in challenging circumstances,” says Lloyd.“She insisted that you can always turn it around.” This belief guided her commitment to supporting Moravian students. While advancing to senior management roles at Aetna, based in Connecticut, Arizona, and Texas, she mentored students, donated to scholarships, and served on the Moravian Leadership Council, campaign cabinet committee, and board of trustees. Her dedication earned her the Comenius Alumni Award in 2010 for her professional achievement and service, and the Moravian Star Award in 2015. Lloyd says he encouraged Laurie’s commitment to her alma mater, and after joining her for Moravian’s Homecoming and Reunion Weekend one year, he realized the school was special.“The uniqueness of the campus was just a draw for me,” recalls Lloyd. “I loved the intimacy of people just saying hello to people on the sidewalks and in the buildings. That’s not what I remembered from being in school.”
SPRING 2025
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