Impactful Mentorship Matters: Anna Spaschak ‘21
Anna Spaschak ‘21, took some time away from Arcadia after graduation to earn her Master’s degree in Higher Education/Student Affairs from The University of South Carolina and now works in the Center for New Student and Family Programs at the University of Florida. This position in higher education prompted her to realize that a connection with her alma mater was important, and today she is the Chair of the The Student Engagement and Experience Alumni Committee and one of ten members of the Arcadia University Young Alumni Committee (AUYAC). The Committee meets monthly to discuss the creation of the Tradition Book, which will be a list of resources new students should be aware of/take part in during their time at the University.
Arcadia defines ‘young alumni’ not based on age, but as alumni who graduated in the last decade. These Graduates Of the Last Decade (G.O.L.D.) alumni are part of the larger Arcadia University Alumni Association (AUAA) and empowers its recent graduates to be informed, invested, and connected. Spaschak, like many other Arcadians, knew that Glenside was her home. “I chose Arcadia University initially for its small, Division III athletics program, specifically to pursue my career in women’s basketball, “Spaschak said. “I got that ‘feeling’ when I walked on campus that this was a good place for me to spend my next four years. However, what truly kept me involved on campus, and made my experience invaluable, was the genuine care and support I received from the staff and community.”
Spaschak recognizes the importance of young alumni/student connections, and through professional networking events like Take a Knight to Work and 53 Knights to Commencement, she is helping students transition into the workplace, beyond Arcadia’s campus. “Whether it was providing guidance on academic choices, offering career advice, or simply being a listening ear during difficult times,” Spaschak said, “the mentors I fostered exemplified the dedication and commitment to student success that sets Arcadia apart.”
Spaschak went on to say, “Their influence not only shaped my college experience, but also continues to resonate in my life beyond graduation, and is why I am in the career path I am in today. I want to give others that same opportunity for connection.”
To learn more or to participate in G.O.L.D. activities, contact Margo Maas at maasm@arcadia.edu.
