Class Agent List
Historically, only 10 percent of our GOLD (Gators of the Last Decade) alumni support the College financially – and we know we can do better. In fact, GOLD alumni are Allegheny’s next generation of leaders and philanthropists, and we must do better in order to secure the future of our College.
Find your Class Agent or Reunion Committee Member below:
Zeben Ashton ’12
Hometown: Waterville, ME
Current City: Meadville, PA
Major: Communication Arts/Women’s Studies
Job Title/Occupation: Allegheny College Admissions Counselor
Campus Organizations: Phi Delta Theta, College Republicans, First-year Orientation, Varsity Swimming and Diving, Admissions, Orchesis Dance Company, Allegheny Student Government
What my Allegheny education means to me: My Allegheny education means the world to me. Allegheny allowed me to explore my interests and has encouraged me not to keep my passion for liberal arts education to myself but to actively promote what it can do for others. The opportunities that were afforded to me as an Allegheny student allowed me to gain the professionalism and experience to be effective in whatever I choose to do. Allegheny certainly has opened doors for me into other academic institutions. With Allegheny’s recognized leadership in continually being an example of what colleges should be doing, I am able to use my experiences to better higher education as a whole.
Why I give back: I give back because I want future generations to have the same, if not greater, experiences than have been made available to me due to the generous donations of alumni in the past. It is the responsibility of every single Allegheny alum to make sure that our institution remains a vibrant community for the development and growth of the knowledge in our ever-changing world.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I serve as a Class Agent because I want to make the idea of giving back less intimidating and instead encourage alums to look back and put value on their invaluable experiences they had at Allegheny.
Katherine Bowser ’12
Hometown: Latrobe, PA
Current City: Meadville, PA
Major: Neuroscience
Job Title/Occupation: Davies Program Coordinator, Office of Community Service and Service-Learning, ACCEL
Campus Organizations: Davies Community Service Leader, Gator Activities Programming, Senior Class Gift Committee
What my Allegheny education means to me: Ben Burtt ’70, distinguished Allegheny alumnus, said, “The liberal arts education I received was the ideal foundation.” I could not agree more. The beauty of a liberal arts education allowed me to explore a plethora of seemingly unrelated interests. My professors were top notch, but Allegheny takes education a step further and emphasizes experiential learning as well. The out-of-classroom experiences – Davies Leader at the Chamber of Commerce, Gator Activities Programming, the Nicaragua EL seminar, and more – have afforded me invaluable skills that will last a lifetime. Allegheny doesn’t just open the door to a career; it offers students the world.
Why I give back: Allegheny gave me the most meaningful and impactful four years of my life. I donate because even the smallest gifts turn into priceless experiences for the current generation of Gators.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I know it is already quoted in some other bios, but David Hoag ’60, really hit the nail on the head: “The only owners of Allegheny College are the alumni. There is no city, state, or profession to worry about us. We are all there is. If we don’t do it, no one else will.”
I serve as a Class Agent because I recognize the importance of giving, and I want others to understand that donations aid Allegheny both directly and indirectly. Dollars from donors go directly to scholarships, academic programs, campus activities, etc. What many people don’t realize, though, is that the percentage of alumni donors, regardless of the dollar amount, is extremely important to an institution. Large donors – people, foundations, corporations, etc. – often look to the percentage of donors, because high alumni involvement is indicative of a strong institution. It also plays into national rankings. It is an exciting time for Allegheny as our national visibility is continually increasing. Let’s continue strengthening our degrees by giving back to the institution that has given so much to us.
Carolina DiPerna ’12
Hometown: Allison Park, PA
Current City: Pittsburgh, PA
Major: Psychology
Job Title/Occupation: Annual Giving Assistant, Robert Morris University
Campus Organizations: Tri Delta, Lambda Sigma, Senior Class Gift, Peer Leader, Phonathon
What my Allegheny education means to me: My Allegheny College education was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I know I will never get those fun, RIGOROUS, sleep-deprived four years back; however, I hope to continue my involvement with Allegheny by being a Class Agent, returning to my alma mater from time to time, and spreading the word about the College that surely does change lives. Not only did I continue a tradition of legacy within my family by attending Allegheny, I received a wonderful education that helped me to land a job right after graduation. I also was lucky to have my sisters transfer to Allegheny for my senior year, making life even better having the ones I love on campus. I will cherish my memories, friendships, and experiences from Allegheny forever. Although growing old is not always fun, I at least look forward to being in the shoes of one of those 85-year old alumnae whom I had the pleasure of driving around on golf carts during Reunion Weekend this past year.
Why I give back: I give back and act as a Class Agent because of everything that Allegheny did for me. The College helped my family through scholarships, prepared me with a skill set to advance into the working world, and made sure I was a person–not an ID number–on my AllCard. It is time now for me (and others!) to give back so those after me can have a chance at all that I did and can go on to make a difference in the world. Allegheny instills the importance of community in its students, and that is something that, in addition to a degree, we can all take back to our hometowns and put to good use.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: That is why I’m a Class Agent; I may be graduated, but I’m still connected!
Alina Meltaus ’12
Hometown: Concord, MA
Current City: Washington, D.C.
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Deputy Field Director, No Labels
Campus Organizations: Kappa Alpha Theta, Allegheny Student Government, Office of Admissions
What my Allegheny education means to me: Allegheny provided the perfect comforts and challenges expected of an undergraduate education. Allegheny offered me the freedom to pursue the subjects that were most interesting to me, but also expanded my academic horizons in ways I didn’t think possible. Beyond my education in the classroom, Allegheny gave me the skills I needed to succeed in the workplace and in life. My most valuable takeaways from my four years in Meadville were often learned in my professors’ office hours, in late-night ASG meetings, or in recruitment events for Theta. Above all, I found amazing lifelong friends at Allegheny, and our shared experiences on campus built a solid foundation for our ever-growing relationships.
Why I give back: Allegheny gave more to me than a monetary donation could ever convey, but I give back because it is one of the most concrete ways that I can support the school I love. As a recent grad, I’m not donating hundreds of dollars every time, but I’m using small and frequent donations as a way to ensure that our College continues to give students the same incredible experience that I had.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I chose to serve as a Class Agent as a way to make sure that Allegheny continues to get support from the class of 2012 and from our alumni in general. Most of the opportunities we enjoyed at Allegheny wouldn’t have been possible without the support of alumni, so we are the newest group of former students who can help continue the legacy of excellence that Allegheny students enjoy. No donation is too small – even $5 will make a big difference. I want to be available to the class of 2012 to answer your questions, stay connected to all of you, and support current and future Gators however I can.
Michelle Perry ’12
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Current City: Pittsburgh, PA
Major: Chemistry
Job Title/Occupation: First-year medical student at the University of Pittsburgh
Campus Organizations: Newman Association, Chemii, APO, Senior Class Gift
Why I give back: Allegheny has given so much to my family, and I feel tied to the institution. I am the seventh member of my family to attend Allegheny, and I learned from an early age the value of contributing financially and volunteering.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: It’s important for my classmates to understand the value of supporting their alma mater. The value of our degrees is strengthened by our continued support of our school.
Dan Donahoe ’11
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Current City: Rockville, MD
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Community Supervision Officer with the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency of the District of Columbia
Campus Organizations: Delta Tau Delta, Allegheny Student Government, Newman, Peer Leader, Writing Consultant
What my Allegheny education means to me: My Allegheny career is what prepared me for where I am right now. The rigorous course load, professors who cared, and administrators who wanted students to succeed created the perfect environment for me to learn and grow. Paired with the education was an amazing student body, from which I made some of my closest friends. Without them, I don’t know how I would have made it through the sleepless nights, perpetual blizzards, or endless stacks of homework. Allegheny opened more than just doors for me – it opened friendships and memories that will never be forgotten.
Why I give back: Allegheny provided me with more opportunities than any other college could have possibly offered. Without Allegheny, I would never have met my best friends, made so many unforgettable memories, or have been as well prepared for the “real world” as I am now. I want all future Allegheny students to have those same chances and opportunities, and I know that my gift helps ensure that those Gators who come after me get the same opportunities.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: Alum David Hoag ’60 said: “The only owners of Allegheny College are the alumni. There is no city, state, or profession to worry about us. We are all there is. If we don’t do it, no one else will.” I believe that it is up to the alumni to guarantee the future is bright for our alma mater and future generations of students. As a Class Agent, I feel as if I am in a position to contribute meaningfully to the future success of Allegheny and its students.
Sara Elizabeth Hillman ’11
Hometown: Spencerport, NY
Current City: Spencerport, NY
Major: Biology
Job Title/Occupation: Laboratory Technician III in the Pulmonary and Critical Care Division at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC)
Campus Organizations: Peer Leader, Phi Sigma Iota, Wind Symphony and Wind Ensemble, Allegheny College Pick-up Soccer
What my Allegheny education means to me: I knew from my first campus tour – from the moment I first set foot on Brooks Walk – that Allegheny was for me. To say that the College’s academic program reinforced this feeling would be an understatement. My professors perfectly balanced their challenging courses and high expectations with a genuine interest in the well-being and success of each student. I am indebted to all of my professors, especially those in the biology department. They provided me with a solid foundation for a career in the biological sciences. Everyone dreads the deadlines and sleepless nights of the senior comp, but in retrospect, I will always be grateful that it was a central part of my Allegheny education. There is nothing more satisfying than presenting a comprehensive and polished representation of your academic achievement to a prospective employer. The fact that every single interviewer praised it highly is a testament to not only my personal effort, but also to the work of my professors and to the ideals of Allegheny College itself. I have no doubt it played a major role in my being offered multiple positions, and that it will continue to serve me well as I evaluate and apply to graduate programs.
Why I give back: Allegheny provided a transformative environment that fostered my academic, spiritual, and personal growth, as well as my sense of civic responsibility. This, combined with the friendships I forged and the memories I carry, made my Allegheny experience invaluable. Without the support and involvement of Allegheny alumni, none of this would have been possible. It only seems right to give back to the institution that has given me so much and to encourage others to do the same. What matters is not the size of the donation, but the act itself. A single donation may seem insignificant, but the cumulative effect is substantial.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: As the saying goes, “I am Allegheny.” We may leave campus after four years, but we’re forever a part of the Allegheny community. Being a Class Agent allows me to not only lead by example and show love and appreciation for my alma mater, but also to reconnect with and re-engage my classmates. The fact that Allegheny caters to such a wide variety of skills and interests means that each student can truly make the experience his or her own. I want to ensure that Allegheny continues to shape lives by giving students the same opportunities that I had and maintains its tradition of academic excellence.
Alexandra Jaffe ’11
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Current City: Washington, D.C.
Major: English
Job Title/Occupation: Journalist
Campus Organizations: The Campus, Model UN
What my Allegheny education means to me: Allegheny was a laboratory of sorts in which I could learn journalism, make mistakes, try new things, and grow. The supportive professors and community made that possible, and that learning experience has been invaluable since I graduated.
Why I give back: I want to help sustain the great experiences and education that make Allegheny the school it is today and also to ensure that future generations of Allegheny students have an even wider range of opportunities than I had during my time there.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I think it’s important for all alumni to give back to the school that gave so much to them and to continue to work to make Allegheny better and better.
Derek McMahan ’11
Hometown: Greensburg, PA
Current City: Greensburg, PA
Major: International Studies and Spanish
Job Title/Occupation: MBA candidate at Duquesne University
Campus Organizations: Varsity Football, Volunteer Service Leader at the Meadville Soup Kitchen, Alternative Spring Breaks, Student Athletic Advisory Council (SAAC), Peer Leader, Lambda Sigma, and Phi Sigma Iota
What my Allegheny education means to me: My four years at Allegheny gave me a fantastic education and have led to great alumni connections. Looking back, I couldn’t have made a better choice. My football and study abroad experiences allowed me to grow so much in four years and meet awesome people. After my four years I know the saying is true – “It’s always a great day to be a Gator” – and I hope my volunteering will help other students have a similar Allegheny experience.
Why I give back: We are all part of the next generation of leaders at Allegheny. It’s not about the amount you donate, but rather the idea of giving. Donating shows faith in Allegheny and a desire to see it succeed over a long period of time. Because Allegheny means so much to me, I want it to continue to offer student programs and grow as an institution.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I want Allegheny to be around for another 200 years. Without an increase to the Annual Fund and alumni volunteers, Allegheny’s viability will be threatened. It is the Class Agents’ job to move the alumni forward and help increase Annual Fund participation and awareness.
Jinnie Templin ’11
Hometown: Townville, PA
Current City: Meadville, PA
Major: Communication Arts
Job Title/Occupation: Marketing Strategist
Campus Organizations: Alpha Delta Pi, College Democrats, Allegheny for Obama, Year of Social Change, Year of Global Citizenship, Senior Class Gift Committee, Alternative Spring Break
What my Allegheny education means to me: More than anything, Allegheny taught me how to be truly passionate about learning. I may have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communication arts, but I also left Allegheny with the confidence to achieve whatever goals I set my mind to attain. Both in and out of the classroom, I was challenged to become a stronger learner, not just in my field, but also in all aspects of my life. After graduation, Allegheny left me with a network of friends and alumni who have been astonishingly supportive, both in my personal and professional life.
Why I give back: Whether or not we realize it while we’re there, Allegheny is a truly phenomenal institution, and I want every Allegheny student to have access to the same amazing opportunities I was given.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I want to help educate my fellow alumni about how vital their past, present, and future contributions are to the Allegheny community. Donating to your alma mater is wonderful, but donating to a cause you support is even more empowering.
Ryan Cole ’10
Hometown: Wattsburg, PA
Current City: Chicago, IL
Major: Biology
Job Title/Occupation: MSPH Candidate at University of Illinois School of Public Health
Campus Organizations: Davies Community Service Leader, I Heart Meadville, Allegheny Running Club, Allegheny Christian Outreach, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Jamaica Mission Team, Alternative Spring Break Trips, Collegiate Leadership Conferences, Wind Symphony, Allegheny Student Government, Tri-Beta, Cross Country and Track Team, Society for Physics Students
What my Allegheny education means to me: When I first went to Allegheny, my plan was to obtain a degree after four years of hard work and then move on to my next phase of life. Four years later, as I walked to receive my diploma, I realized that I was walking away from Allegheny with much more than I originally thought I would. The friends, experiences, and education I got as a Gator have made a lasting impact on my life, which will be carried with me the rest of my life. Being at Allegheny taught me to seriously ask the questions: “Who am I?” “What do I care about?” “What role can I play in the world?” The opportunities that I was provided built my confidence, strengthened my leadership, fed my passions, and provided me with my central motivation and desire to help build communities through empowerment in everything that I do.
Why I give back: As my years as an alumnus increase, I grow more and more appreciative of my experience at Allegheny. Through my experiences in higher education since graduation, both in employment and in my current role as a graduate student, I have begun to see just how unique Allegheny and the Gator experience is. I also have become more cognizant of how our great alumni base contributes to this. I was not aware of it as much as a student, but looking back, I can see the ways in which I benefited from Allegheny alumni. Everything from attending lectures and speakers, to utilizing the new facilities that were built while I was on campus, and to having the opportunity to serve in the community – these were all possible, in part, because of the continued involvement of our alumni. Knowing this, I have decided that I, too, want to be a part of the tradition of alumni giving back. Being only a few years out, I was not sure how I could do this, but I have been able to volunteer at local events when possible and do something as simple as writing personalized holiday letters to prospective students.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: My years at Allegheny have played an important role in my life, and I have come to understand how important it is to give back to your school, no matter in what amount or in what way. As a student, I benefited from alumni, and I want to help continue and build that tradition as a Class Agent. I feel that not everyone is aware of how far just a small amount of time or a small monetary donation can go. I say this mainly because I didn’t at one time, and I want to help others understand the importance of it and encourage them to give back in whatever way they can.
Brett Fuchs ’10
Hometown: Queens, NY / Milford, PA
Current City: Marshall, MO
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Coordinator of Residential Life and Housing (Higher Education Administration/Student Affairs)
Campus Organizations: ASG, Hillel, CAC, Relay For Life, Pi Sigma Alpha, Lambda Sigma.
What my Allegheny education means to me: Describing my time at Allegheny is nearly impossible. It was an experience unlike any other, truly four of the best years of my life. It was an opportunity to be part of a community that is caring, welcoming, and intellectually engaging. I formed lasting friendships and had the opportunity to learn from instructors and mentors whom I remain close with today. My experience not only prepared me academically, but led me to a career path that I would have never sought if it were not for my experience. Allegheny continues to open doors for me; Allegheny is and always will be part of my life.
Why I give back: I give back because I want to make sure that others can have that same experience I did. I want to help make sure that future generations of Allegheny alumni can look back at their experience and say that they would not have wanted to go to college anywhere else.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I serve as a Class Agent for two reasons: one, so that I can give back to the community that gave so much to me, and two, so that I can share all of the great things going on at Allegheny with my classmates!
Rachel Higgins ’10
Hometown: Chicora, PA
Current City: Alexandria, VA
Major: Psychology
Job Title/Occupation: Assistant Director for Admission and Financial Aid
Campus Organizations: Gator Activities Programming, Alpha Chi Omega
What my Allegheny education means to me: My Allegheny education beyond prepared me for graduate school; I was able to write and think critically at the level my professors expected.
Why I give back: I give back not only because of the educational advantage Allegheny provided me, but also because of the community it created that provided me with such great memories and lifelong friends.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I serve as a Class Agent because I feel that now as I reflect back on my college years, I realize Allegheny gave me so much more than I realized at graduation. I don’t have a lot of money to give back, but I’m happy to give what I can and want to encourage my classmates to do the same.
Caitlin O’Brien-Rice ’10
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Current City: Pittsburgh, PA
Major: Communication Arts
Job Title/Occupation: Director of Annual Fund and Director of Alumnae Relations, Oakland Catholic High School
Campus Organizations: Delta Delta Delta, Phone-a-Thon, Collegiate Leadership Conference, Alternative Spring Break, Senior Class Gift Committee, Year of Social Change Student Ambassador
What my Allegheny education means to me: My experiences at Allegheny College have undoubtedly altered the course of my life in an incredibly meaningful way. As a student, I was challenged and empowered to become the best version of myself. Allegheny has influenced my life both personally and professionally to the extent that I can confidently say that without Allegheny College, my life and career would not be as enjoyable or fulfilling.
Why I give back: I give back to Allegheny College because I am forever grateful for the impact that our alma mater has had on my life. I cannot imagine a better place to have gone to college, and I feel that it is my duty to ensure that Allegheny remains an instrumental force in the lives of future generations of Gators.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: While I am very vocal about my enthusiasm for Allegheny College, I know that an even bigger impact will be made on our alma mater if I am able to engage fellow alumni. Serving Allegheny as a Class Agent is a unique way to give back to the school while also staying connected to my classmates. Allegheny’s extensive network of diverse and successful alumni is one of our greatest strengths, and I am honored to play a part in maintaining the integrity of our Allegheny alumni community.
Moin Syed ’10
Hometown: Abqaiq, Saudi Arabia
Current City: South Orange, NJ
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Special Assistant to the Founder/CEO, WWO (Worldwide Orphans Foundation) – (International Affairs)
Campus Organizations: Delta Tau Delta, ASG, Inter-Fraternity Council, Honor Committee
What my Allegheny education means to me: Allegheny gave me the opportunity to explore different interests, get involved, and, most importantly, Allegheny taught me the importance of giving back.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: As a Class Agent, I get the opportunity to support Allegheny in a small way and to help ensure that Allegheny has the resources to provide a great experience to anyone who is lucky enough to attend.
Christina Sutphen ’09
Hometown: Syracuse, NY
Current City: Larchmont, NY
Major: Psychology
Job Title/Occupation: Assistant Director of Student Development at Iona College
Why I give back: Being able to stay on a college campus is extremely energizing for me and made me want to be even more connected to our wonderful alma mater, Allegheny College. It is important to remember all the amazing things Allegheny has done for us, and I want to bring a greater sense of pride to our already amazing alumni. I look forward to a great year and getting to reconnect with other 2009 alumni especially in the New York City area!
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I have assisted in small ways at Allegheny through the last years since graduating but found I wanted to become more involved and was presented with the offer to become a Class Agent. I am excited to serve as a Class Agent because I realize that even our smallest gifts make a difference, and I want to keep our class, 2009, connected to our amazing experience at Allegheny.
Ashlee Lang Sydlik ’09
Hometown: Economy, PA
Current City: Falls Church, VA
Major: Neuroscience, Psychology
Job Title/Occupation: Teacher for Early Head Start
Campus Organizations: Alpha Delta Pi, Lambda Sigma, Panhellenic Council, Allegheny Student Government, Learning Commons Writing Consultant, Peer Leader, Grounds for Change, Big Brothers Big Sisters, CLC Student Coordinator
What my Allegheny education means to me: My Allegheny education means so much to me. It prepared me to complete graduate school. I am able to pursue one of my passions – supporting educational non-profits – because Allegheny provided me with a fantastic academic experience, strengthened my leadership abilities, and instilled in me a passion for social justice. With my unique Allegheny education, I made friends and memories that I will cherish forever.
Why I give back: I give back because it is one way that I can express my gratefulness to Allegheny. As a proud alumna, I am thankful for my educational and professional opportunities I have received as a direct result of my education. My donation makes a difference in the lives of current and future students. I benefited from the generosity of alumni, and I want to join in the tradition of giving back.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I am proud to represent the amazing class of 2009. I am excited to continue serving my classmates and the College as a Class Agent. Reconnecting with fellow 2009 graduates keeps me motivated and excited about the Class Agent program. Also, I want to keep the class of 2009 connected to Allegheny and encourage my classmates to give back.
Brandon Tirpak ’09
Hometown: Donora, PA
Current City: Pittsburgh, PA
Major: Spanish
Job Title/Occupation: International Market Research Analyst, Asian Metal
Campus Organizations: College Republicans, Newman Club, Delta Tau Delta
What my Allegheny education means to me: Allegheny opened my eyes to a much larger world. The opportunities and the way the College helped to shape my outlook and insight will stay with me for the rest of my life. My education at Allegheny means so much to me, but more so, I remember the lessons and experiences I learned outside of the classroom, speaking with other students, engaging in the community, and challenging and defining my own beliefs.
Why I give back: I give back to Allegheny because I was fortunate enough to receive support while I was a student. I realize the importance of alumni and the strength of our contributions to the College and the direct effect it has on the life of current and future students. My donation is my own vote of confidence in an Allegheny education and helps to ensure that generations to come will have the same quality education and experience that I had.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I serve as a Class Agent to bring awareness to other alumni about their ability to make a direct difference in the lives of current Allegheny students. I serve as a Class Agent to ensure the continued improvement of my alma mater and guarantee its excellence well into the 21st century and beyond.
Daniel Carik ’07
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Current City: Washington, D.C.
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Senior Consultant, Booz Allen Hamilton – Defense and Intelligence Markets
Campus Organizations: Men’s Soccer, Pi Sigma Alpha, Center for Political Participation
What my Allegheny education means to me: It has meant the world! Allegheny prepared me to excel at graduate school and in my professional life. My education from Allegheny College equipped me not only with knowledge, but also with the skills to continue learning every day.
Why I give back: I give back because I want anyone who is committed to living the highest ideals of my alma mater to have the opportunity regardless of their background or means.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I serve as a Class Agent because I want to remain connected to Allegheny College and because I want to ensure that the legacy of our school endures.
Julie Reisz Haines ’07
Hometown: Harrison City, PA
Current City: Winston Salem, NC
Major: Chemistry
Job Title/Occupation: Postdoctoral Fellow at Wake Forest School of Medicine
Campus Organizations: Chemii, Cross Country, Track & Field, Honor Committee
What my Allegheny education means to me: My Allegheny experience gave me a tremendous foundation to become a confident scientist and caring team player. The years at Allegheny and interactions with faculty and my classmates were transformative in helping me focus on and develop along a path for my future.
Why I give back: I give back in an effort to make the Allegheny education more accessible to prospective and current students, to support and recognize the dedicated faculty, and to demonstrate my commitment to seeing our alma mater continue its tradition of excellence in the liberal arts for many years to come.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: Being a Class Agent helps me stay connected to my classmates and to the broader Allegheny community and is a great way to pay forward my love for the College!
Samantha Walsh ’07
Hometown: Charlestown, RI
Current City: Salem, MA
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Master of Social Work Student
Campus Organizations: Hillel, Kappa Alpha Theta, Religious Life
What my Allegheny education means to me: Attending school at Allegheny provided me with so many educational and extracurricular experiences that prepared me for life after graduation. My critical-thinking skills sharpened and my confidence soared because of the classes and experiences I had at Allegheny.
Why I give back: I give back to Allegheny because I want current and prospective students to have all the opportunities that I had and more. I also give back because of the wonderful memories and friends I have because of my time at Allegheny.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: Being a Class Agent allows me to share my love for Allegheny. It also allows me to give volunteer hours to show further my appreciation to a school that means so much to me.
Brad Tuttle ’06 
Hometown: Erie, PA
Current City: Washington, D.C.
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Legal Consultant, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Campus Organizations: Sigma Alpha Epsilon, ASG, Tennis
What my Allegheny education means to me: An Allegheny education strongly emphasizes not only the critical thinking, writing, and analytic skills needed to compete effectively in the 21st century workforce, but also a sense of civic involvement and engagement that is becoming evermore important as our nation and world change and affect us.
Why I give back: To do a small part to support an institution that has opened pathways, both academically and professionally, for thousands of students and allowed them to grow into their full potential.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: For the reasons above, and because I am fortunate to have time now to reach out to our class, members of whom – on average – are likely at an age that presents little time to focus on matters of giving to our College. Yet, if we are able to present the opportunity adequately, I have no doubt the class of ’06 is fully on board to support Allegheny.
Mary Zoller Utter ’06
Hometown: Rochester, NY
Current City: Pittsburgh, PA
Major: Political Science
Job Title/Occupation: Assistant Director of Student Life at the University of Pittsburgh
Campus Organizations: Alpha Delta Pi, Gator Activities Programming, Peer Leader, ASG, Honor Committee, Creek Connections
What my Allegheny education means to me: The most important thing about an Allegheny education for me was the critical-thinking and problem-solving skills I learned. Throughout my course work and activities on campus, I had experiences that allowed me to be a well-rounded individual. The skills and knowledge you gain at Allegheny stay with you for a lifetime.
Why I give back: I give back to Allegheny because it gave so much to me. I give Allegheny a lot of credit for the person I am today and the successes I’ve had. I want future generations of people to be able to benefit from an Allegheny education the same way I did.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: Being a Class Agent allows me to do more for Allegheny than I could otherwise. I’m able to reconnect with classmates and spread the Allegheny pride. For me, being a Class Agent is an easy way to give back.
Celeste Lindahl Halcomb ’05
Hometown: Herndon, VA
Current City: Hyden, KY
Major: Chemistry
Job Title/Occupation: Physician Assistant, Christian Family Healthcare
Campus Organizations: Women’s Rugby, Alpha Chi Omega, AmeriCorp, Meadville Housing Authority, Keystone Blind Association, CRAVE
What my Allegheny education means to me: Allegheny has given me a wealth of experience that has helped me develop as a motivated leader in my community; I am committed to serving the greatest needs of its population. Allegheny helped me obtain the study skills and necessary determination to graduate from a wonderful physician assistant program. My desire to serve the underserved was fostered through the community service department, and serving this population has since become my life.
Why I give back: I want others to have the opportunities that I was blessed with at Allegheny.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I want to do all I can to give back to the institution that gave so much to me.
Matthew Dickey ’04
Hometown: Montgomery Village, MD
Current City: Los Angeles, CA
Major: Communications and Managerial Economics
Job Title/Occupation: West Coast Account Executive for Testrite Visual Inc.
Campus Organizations: Phi Delta Theta, Swimming, and WARC
What my Allegheny education means to me: Allegheny helped me grow as an individual, team player, and leader. My education helped plant a foundation, which has influenced my way of thinking and problem-solving in the real world. An internship through Allegheny alum Lloyd Segan in Hollywood led to a job offer upon graduation and a foot in the door to working in the entertainment industry.
Why I give back: I feel that giving is two part, with your time and financially. Both are an indication that you value your education and would like to see the same for Allegheny students for generations to come.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: I want to encourage other Allegheny alums to reconnect with their alma mater.
Karen Hoerst ’04 
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
Current City: Washington, D.C.
Major: Self-designed: Values, Ethics, and Social Action
Job Title/Occupation: Capacity Coordinator, Service Employees International Union
Campus Organizations: Bonner Leader
What my Allegheny education means to me :My time at Allegheny taught me to think critically about the world around me and gave me tools to make a difference in the world. I had numerous opportunities through ACCEL to learn through experiences and see things from a different perspective.
Why I give back: My time at Allegheny was very important to me becoming the person I am today and helped to shape my worldview. I want to make sure other students have the same opportunities as I did.
Why I serve as a Class Agent: Allegheny is such a great school, and I want to help raise its profile around the country. Getting more of my classmates to participate in the Annual Fund is a great way for all of us to show our love for Allegheny.
