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from the alumni office
Jenny Engle ’ 12 , ’ 15 / MA Director of Alumni Relations
( 517 ) 264-7143 jengle @ sienaheights . edu
Ready and Waiting to Hear Your Siena Stories !
It was this time last year when I was chosen to be the Director of Alumni Relations . I came to the Alumni Office with four years of experience working in Advancement at Siena Heights . I had been a non-traditional undergraduate student and was a current graduate student when I accepted the offer . I sit here today and reminisce on all that I love about Siena .
I am thrilled that I work for , and have been educated at , an institution that truly lives its mission — to assist people to become more competent , purposeful and ethical through a teaching and learning environment which respects the dignity of all .
On my first official day in the Alumni Office in mid-November , I learned quickly that while I can start each day with a plan – that plans don ’ t always go as expected and that I would need to be flexible .
The unplanned part of that first day was also the best part of that day . I had an unexpected visitor — a member of the class of 1976 . This alum had not been back to campus since graduation nearly 40 years ago . He was in the area visiting , and stopped in looking for contact information of a former classmate he was hoping to connect with . We spent some time chatting about his experience at Siena and talking about all of the changes that have occurred over the years . He seemed genuinely happy to be on campus , and pleasantly surprised by the different look and growth of Siena Heights . At the end of that day , I knew I was going to love my new position . Recently , two colleagues and I were invited to be guests of the Pi Lambda Phi fraternity , which was celebrating its 30th reunion . I was a little nervous and wasn ’ t sure what to expect – it ’ s been a few years since I ’ ve attended a fraternity party ! What I found when I arrived was an incredible group of people who love each other and love Siena Heights University . The stories and photos that were shared were part of their Siena story , and I am thankful to have shared in their celebration .
I have had countless phone calls and visitors to my office in the short few months on the job . It is a privilege to be able to meet and speak to so many who have walked the halls here on our main campus , as well as those who have made their journey through our online and satellite locations .
I look forward to meeting alumni and friends of Siena in the months and years ahead , and am anxious to hear your Siena stories and listen to ways that the Alumni Office can assist you . Should you be on the main campus , please stop by my office in Sacred Heart Hall . I can also be reached by phone at 517-264-7143 or email at jengle @ sienaheights . edu . Please watch for future alumni event updates .
Homecoming Weekend 2016 is Oct . 7-9 . Plans are underway for an event-filled weekend , with activities that are sure to spark interest in everyone . We will honor Alumni Award winners and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees . There will be all kinds of events and activities happening on campus , and opportunities to connect with fellow alumni and current students as well as with faculty , staff and students . In true Siena fashion , we offer something for everyone . March on , Saints !
Reflections Summer ’ 16 | 25