Chief Advancement Officer.

What does a typical day at work entail?

It depends, if I’m on campus it entails meetings with colleagues in advancement or across the college and, if I’m traveling, it entails meeting with alumni, parents and friends. In all cases my job is to advance Amherst’s mission, to help raise awareness of the College and its goals, and to encourage generosity in Amherst’s external constituencies. My advancement colleagues and I accomplish this by nurturing long-term and mutually-enriching relationships with and among constituents, including alumni, families and friends, faculty and staff.

Where did you grow up?

Canfield, Ohio.

What was your childhood like?

I’m an identical twin— so it was a lot of fun — I always had someone to play with.

How did you end up in Amherst?

My family and I moved here from Williamstown when I became the Chief Advancement Officer two years ago.

What is your family like?

I have a husband who is currently an adjunct reader for the Admission Office and a 10-year-old son and seven-year-old daughter.

Do you have any pets?

Yes, Scout — she’s 14 and aging gracefully.

What is your favorite place in the world?

East Mojave Desert.

Do you have a favorite Val meal?

My favorite meal comes from Schwemm’s — the chicken bacon blue wrap and cranberry juice.

What is your favorite thing about Amherst College?

The talented students, committed faculty, dependable staff and very loyal alumni and parents.

Do you have any hidden talents?

No.

What is your favorite hobby or activity?

Running and reading (but not at the same time).

Do you have a daily routine before and after work?

No, nothing about my day is routine.

What period of your life do you wish you could relive?

I don’t know yet.

How many years have you worked at Amherst?

Two years.

What positions did you hold before Amherst? I was the Director of Leadership Giving at Williams College.

What is your favorite memory of being at Amherst?

Oct. 25, 2008 — the public announcement of the College’s Lives of Consequence Campaign, A Campaign for Amherst. To learn more about it go to: https://www.amherst.edu/campaign.