Dear Fellow Alumni/ae,
As our newest Yalies begin packing their bags for their trips to New Haven, I feel a close kinship with them as YAA’s new executive director. We “applied” in the winter, received our “acceptance letters” in the spring, and have spent the time since preparing for this phase in our Yale journeys. Like them, I am ready and excited to begin my first full year in a new role.
The summer proved to be an excellent orientation. I met many of you on campus in May and June and got to experience Yale College Reunions with fresh eyes. They did not disappoint – especially my own 25th! I have started to connect with the YAA Board of Governors, some of our shared interest groups, regional clubs, and volunteer leaders, in addition to the class leaders I met during Reunions. It has been an honor to share in their work and witness the meaningful experiences they help to create for their fellow alumni. I look forward to continuing these introductions, especially my breakfast with our Graduate & Professional Schools alumni relations staff in September.
While a student at Yale, my team (women’s lacrosse) was the hallmark of my time outside the classroom. Working with my teammates towards a common goal, representing Yale in pursuit of something greater than ourselves, was a privilege. We were supported by alumni who came before and passed down traditions to those who would play after. Strong teams are at the heart of Yale – in academic departments and schools, laboratories, student organizations, cultural centers, and beyond. I am so grateful to the YAA staff for being just such an incredible team. They have welcomed me with open minds and remain steadfast in the YAA’s mission of “uniting the people and ideas that comprise the lifelong Yale experience.” Like many other teams at Yale, they — in partnership with our incredible Board and other volunteers — ensure that our important traditions continue, and that space is created for innovative programming as our alumni body continues to change.
My “Camp Yale” summer continued with a lot of listening and meetings, not only with alumni and staff but also with campus partners. As I galvanize areas that will be priorities for me over the next few years, I hope you will answer the call as the YAA focuses on intentional campus connections that support the university's priorities, thoughtful alumni listening sessions, enhanced student engagement, investments in technology, and deeper collaboration across our YAA teams. More on all of these efforts will be shared in the coming months via our website, social channels, and monthly newsletters. (Note: To receive these updates, please make sure we have your correct information on file!)
I am so fortunate to be in this new position. I do not take for granted the opportunity to create joy and connection among the Yale community. You will hear from me regularly in the YAA newsletter and with some new, fun series on social media (@YaleAlumni). Please know that I want to hear from you as well! My door at Rose Alumni House is open, and you can email me anytime at accole@yale.edu.
While my role here in New Haven may be new, my love and appreciation for Yale are not.
Let’s have some fun and go Bulldogs!
-AC
Alison E. Cole ’99
Executive Director, YAA
