Energetic and Community-Minded: Alumnae Leadership Board Retreat

On August 17, 2024, Marlborough’s Alumnae Leadership Board (ALB) gathered together for their annual retreat––a day dedicated to forging connections, reaffirming their commitment to the ALB mission, and charting the course for the coming year. “The mission of ALB is to build lifelong engagement amongst a diverse alumnae population,” ALB President Kim Root Sandifer ’87 reminded everyone in attendance. “I am really looking forward to the year ahead and everything we will do together for Marlborough and the alumnae community.”

The programming began with a number of introductions, as nine new members joined the group. Every member of ALB took the time to introduce themselves and offer their reasons for getting involved. The responses varied but a common theme united the group: an enduring appreciation for the education and experience gained as a Marlborough student and the sincere desire to give back to a community that continues to give them so much. ALB Officers and Committee Chairs––who support the President in strategically planning events, driving special initiatives, and maintaining a strong sense of connection across the alumnae community––were also celebrated. The full list of the 2024-2025 Alumnae Leadership Board members can be found here.

Head of School Jennifer Ciccarelli provided a look into the current state of Marlborough, offering ALB a glimpse into what the Marlborough experience is like for today’s students. She emphasized her unwavering dedication to empowering girls and young women, underscored the importance of preparing students for the future with critical thinking skills, and emphasized her focus on helping our community overcome toxic achievement culture. Ms. Ciccarelli, who is also the parent of a rising 9th grader, shared what she finds to be the “magic of Marlborough.” She shared, “The skills, values, lessons, and excellent education you took from Marlborough are the very foundations that continue to support and inspire our current students.”

Following Ms. Ciccarelli’s remarks, ALB dove into logistical planning. They discussed important dates, began their committee work, and received updates from Marlborough’s Advancement Office on fundraising goals and outreach strategies. A highlight of the day was ALB’s participation in thank you calls to alumnae donors who generously supported the School during the 2023-2024 school year. These calls provided a meaningful way for members of ALB to connect with these donors, forging bonds and conveying the School’s immense gratitude. “One of my favorite parts of my job and working with ALB is having the opportunity to connect with alumnae from all different class years,” reflected Natalie Makous Cuadra ’09, Marlborough’s Associate Director of Alumnae Engagement. “These thank you calls offer such a wonderful point of connection and I look forward to making them alongside ALB each year.”

The retreat concluded with a clear vision for an energetic, community-minded, successful year. The work, thoughtfulness, and support offered by ALB is invaluable to Marlborough and our alumnae. We are deeply grateful for the commitment of its members and look forward to maintaining and strengthening our connection with the alumnae community at large, ensuring that Marlborough’s enduring legacy continues to thrive.