D-E alumni recently returned to campus for a series of events, including a panel from recent graduates, speed networking with our class of 2025, a Young Alumni BBQ, and a gift dedication from the Class of 2024. During the Recent Alumni Panel, moderated by Eileen Cunningham Feikens P’14, P’15, Dean of College Counseling, Kristen DeRoche ’24, Alexander Irausquin-Petit ’24, Macri Leanza ’22, George Perez ’22, and Karina Pink ’23, gave our graduating seniors advice on college life. Macri advised students to “work at your own pace… be disciplined” and “be the driver of your own ship.” Kristen suggested students “strategize how to be most successful” and “be open and communicative with your professors.” Alex concurred, noting that “Building relationships is incredibly important.” The alums also touched on responsible use of AI in college, with Macri advising using it as a tool, “not as a crutch.”

Following the panel, seniors participated in Power Networking Sessions with D-E alums Rana Campbell ’09, Devin Delliquanti ’02, Erica Leigh Fields ’97, Mandy Mishell Hackett ’88, Dria James ’07, Neesha Khanna ’09, Joshua Kramer ’93, Marc Leibman ’89, Foster Song ’13, Vanessa Soto Marquez ’95, and Dr. Sarah Timmapuri ’85. Each senior sat with four potential mentors to discuss career journeys, what to expect while on the job, and tips for career success. Devin, a writer on “The Daily Show” since 2015, reflected on his time at D-E and having learned how to edit videos from Art & Design Teacher John McCabe. His advice for students interested in a career in entertainment was to “perform in front of people live… it teaches you the rhythm of what an audience wants.” Rana, a senior marketing manager on the pitch team at Paramount, described her unconventional career path, which included getting recruited for an ad-sales job after starting up friendly conversation on a flight. Foster, a data scientist at L’Oréal, noted that “AI is changing the field…People who will suffer the most are those who don’t adjust to it.” Ultimately, he added, it’s important to “be a good communicator, as that skill can’t be replaced.”

The Young Alumni BBQ included members of the Class of 2024, who later gathered in the Campus Center to officially dedicate two leather couches. We’re always happy to welcome back our lifelong learners!