Alumni News

An illustration of two women that incorporates their photos and has an arty blue filter over top.

From left, alumnae and Board of Governors members Wendy Ballesteros and Rosemary Trinkle Baran.

It’s Their Job to Get Alumni Involved

The alumni board of governors works on behalf of the University’s Alumni Association and its more than 148,000 alumni. All FDU graduates become members of the association upon graduation.

Board members, who work closely with the Office of Alumni Relations, volunteer at many University-wide events and programs, including panel discussions, career-networking events, guest lectures, admissions open houses and alumni events.

Rosemary Trinkle Baran, BS’83 (Ruth), currently serves as board president. “I felt compelled to contribute to the institution that played such a pivotal role in shaping me.”

The board consists of several ad hoc committees, each chaired by an alum. For example, the Clubs and Chapters committee works with different FDU affinity groups — those with a common FDU experience —such as the Hospitality and Tourism Alumni Chapter.

The Awards Committee determines the recipients of each year’s alumni awards. The Volunteer/Mentorship Committee recruits alumni to participate in mentorship, admitted student days, webinars and philanthropic outreach.

Trinkle Baran’s term will expire in June, and Wendy Ballesteros, MS’05, MBA’14 (Metro), executive vice president of the board, will succeed her as president.

“Rosemary has been an inspiration because she is involved in so many facets of FDU and continues to make strides with the board,” Ballesteros says. “I know I have big shoes to fill, but as a board we still have work to do to continue to transform FDU.”

“I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to have held this role and have truly enjoyed serving FDU,” says Trinkle Baran. “It has been my most rewarding volunteer position and evokes strong emotions every time I pause to reflect on the legacy of alumni who preceded us and the impact of Peter and Sally Sammartino’s vision for the future from the porch in Rutherford, N.J.”

Young Alumni Association Revitalized

The Young Alumni Association, which serves alumni who have graduated in the past 15 years, is under new leadership with new ideas.

President Lisa-Monet Jefferson, BS’22, MBA’24 (Metro), says, “I look forward to collaborating with our incredible FDU alumni.” The executive board also includes Tymiak Hawkins, BA’15 (Flor), and Amaya Morales, BA’22 (Metro).

The association helps young alumni foster new connections and expand their networks. Alumni may also engage with the local communities and take advantage of career-development opportunities.

The group hosted a Young Alumni Happy Hour and Reception in the fall at 1776 by David Burke in Morristown, N.J.

Alumni can reach out to the YAA at fduyoungalumni@gmail.com.

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