Student Alumni Association Sponsored Speed Networking Event for Students

The Westminster College Student Alumni Association (SAA) sponsored Connections in English and Public Relations Speed Networking April 5.  The event was open to all students, regardless of major.

SAA Vice President Chelsea Dean, a junior business administration major, opened the evening with a welcome address.  Dean is a daughter of Cynthia Dean of Canfield, Ohio, and a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School.

Westminster College Career Center Associate Director Kati Edmiston '00 and Alumni Relations Director Mary James '84 spoke to the group. 

Westminster alumni employed in the English and public relations fields hosted networking tables.  When the bell rang after six minutes, students moved to the next table, made another alumni contact, asked questions, and learned from experienced alumni.

Alumni participants included:
• Kristan Kohley Allen '07, director of marketing and communications, The Mentoring Partnership in Pittsburgh
• Valentine J. Brkich '97, senior writer, Robert Morris University in Moon Township
• Elizabeth Fontaine Hildebrand '92, director of publications, Westminster College
• Jordan M. Hinds '06, community program specialist, Injury Prevention Department, UPMC Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh
• Christine E. Line '08, web writer, Edgar Snyder & Associates in Pittsburgh
• Erin Remai Palko '98, public relations manager, UPMC Horizon Hospital in Farrell
• Susan Talbott '73, consultant, Susan Talbott & Associates, Inc.
• Colleen Currie Taylor '90, claims administrator, Werner Company in Greenville

"This event was a great opportunity for students to hear first-hand about the wide variety of opportunities available to them after they graduate," Allen said.  "Westminster's English and PR department prepares you for whatever path you're looking to take in your career.  I think our alumni showcase that in the depth and breadth of their experiences."

"I really enjoyed this event," Brkich said.  "It felt great to connect with these young people and share advice on what they can do now that will help them build a successful, satisfying career."

Sophomore public relations major and SAA member Tawni Darby appreciated the chance to talk with alumni who are successful in a variety of areas: "It was interesting and inspiring to me as a student who is not completely sure where I want to go after graduation.  They provided me with wonderful insight into what I should focus on now as a student and what I need to look for in a future career."

Darby is a daughter of Walter and Lori Darby of Hermitage and a graduate of Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center.

The evening concluded with a dessert reception and informal networking.

Contact Cindy Dafler, Westminster assistant director of alumni relations, at (724) 946-7373 or email daflercs@westminster.edu for more information.

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