teacher, and later as a school administrator, I was very fortunate to have women in my life who were eager to share the wisdom that was born of their experiences in the profession,” said Potsdam Central School Superintendent Joann Converse Chambers ’87. “Now, I certainly feel compelled to do the same for young women who are just starting out. When I meet with my mentees, their untarnished enthusiasm reminds me again why I chose to do this important work.” Alumnae participants from around the country remarked that the program helped them reconnect with the college in a meaningful way, and they really enjoyed having the chance to get to know a student on a personal level. “I actually wondered if I could help a current student because I had been out for so long. I wasn’t sure any advice I had would be relevant,” said Empire State College Director of Alumni and Student Relations Maureen Buffardi Winney ’78. “But what I discovered was that I turned into a much better listener than I had been. That was the key, and I learned an incredible amount from this young woman.” Many alumnae invited students to visit their homes or places of work, provided networking connections and face-to-face introductions related to employment interests, reviewed resumes and cover letters and set up mock phone and face-to-face interviews. “The Women and Leadership Program is just as rewarding for the mentor as it is for the mentee,” said Port Washington Public Library Librarian Denise Brandy Anchico ’84. “The concept of ‘women helping women’ as career role models is both innovative and essential for our young, female graduates. This was a valuable experience for me and one that I would like to continue.” The sharing of personal Potsdam stories among students and alumnae, from residence hall life and club/organization involvement, to classes and working with professors, was also a significant highlight of the program. “It is a treat to be able to once again experience undergraduate life through the mentor program. So much has changed and yet, so much of college life remains the same,” noted New York Retired Director of Government and Community Relations for General Contractors Association Rita Itkin Schwartz ’58. “Being a mentor
gives me the opportunity to help a young woman think through goals, problems and directions. I was fortunate to have the same mentee for two years. We formed a bond and will continue to be connected.” For more information about the program or to become a mentor, please contact Policella at (315) 267-2818 or policera@potsdam.edu or contact Director of Alumni Relations Mona Ouimet Vroman ’85 at (315) 267-2120 or vromanmo@ potsdam.edu.
Denise Brandy Anchico ’84 and Naomi Gillick ’16
Mariel DeLeo n ’18 and Maureen Bu ffardi Winney ’78
w w w.potsdam.edu/people
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