That moment and the many beautiful experiences that came after changed my life. As a first-generation college graduate, I vowed that I would always pay my opportunity forward, however I could. After years of sharing my time, talent, and treasure, I had the opportunity to become President of the Arcadia University Alumni Association (AUAA). I embraced the chance to serve as another way to return the enormous gift I had been given. 

Three years later, as my presidential term comes to an end, I write to all of you to share my gratitude for all that we have achieved together. Of our countless accomplishments, I am most proud of our work to develop and implement the Arcadia University Alumni Association’s Strategic Plan, create a career mentoring program, and move to modernize the Alumni Association by simplifying our organizational structure, streamlining committees, and establishing a set of guiding principles to carry us into the future. Still, the most rewarding part of being Alumni Association president was connecting with our rich network of talented alumni. 

I promise this isn’t the end of the road for me; I’ll continue to serve on committees, volunteer, participate in alumni events, and support our alma mater in any way that I can. It is my honor to transition the presidency to Maya Basu Johnson ’97, our current AUAA Vice President. Her pride, energy, and leadership will be a gift to us all; with her guidance, we’ll build on our momentum to strengthen connections with each other and with our alma mater.

Arcadia University and alumni, thank you for three wonderful years of progress. It’s been an honor to serve you. 

Sincerely, 

Kerry Costello Leraris ’92, ’94MEd 
President, Arcadia University Alumni Association