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Alumni Engagement
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The 2025 Scholar and Donor Celebration brought together donors, students, alumni, and university leaders for an evening centered on gratitude, connection and the power of educational opportunity. The room was filled with conversation as donors met the scholars they support, often learning their stories and future aspirations for the first time.
The program opened with remarks from Mandy Ray, vice president of advancement and executive director of the Alumni Association and Foundation, and student co-emcee Evie Holden, a senior nursing major graduating in May 2026. Both spoke to the profound impact of scholarships on student success and the supportive community that surrounds Salem State scholars.
Alumni Association and Foundation Chair Annalisa Di Palma shared updates on the continued growth of donor-supported programs, including the Meet the Moment® campaign and expanded scholarship opportunities. President John Keenan expressed gratitude to donors for strengthening student success and recognized the scholarship committee for its careful work in selecting recipients each year.
Three student speakers then shared how donor generosity has shaped their experiences and goals:
- Tuong Vi Diane Thai ’23, ’26G, completing her master’s degree this year, spoke about how the Nancy D. Harrington ’60 Endowed Scholarship Fund is helping her balance graduate studies, work and family responsibilities.
- Hayley Mello ’26, a Walsh Family Award recipient, shared her passion for biology and her plans to pursue a PhD.
- Maya Lily Dunn ’27, a Forten Legacy Scholar and Michael I. Prochilo English Department Scholarship recipient, reflected on her teaching practicum and her goal of becoming an educator.
The program also featured alumna Erin Mayo ’16, who spoke about the mentors and opportunities that guided her path to a career in disability policy and advocacy.
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was warm and celebratory, highlighted by shared stories, a festive dinner and a group photo of this year’s scholars. The event served as a reminder of how donor support creates meaningful opportunities for students and continues to strengthen the Salem State community.