Ephs on the Mooove
Meeting alumni where they are, sharing who they are.
During the month of July, Juan Baena '06 and Mike Rodriguez '17 embark aboard an RV on a cross-country journey to listen, share, and connect with Williams alumni. By documenting alumni's experiences of life at home, work, and in their local communities, they hope to celebrate a shared sense of connection and reflect on what it means to engage beyond the Purple Valley.
We Belong Here
Alejandra Moran ’17 and Kevin Hernandez ’17 have recently relocated to Albuquerque, NM, where Alejandra has started medical school while Kevin works in the education space. We chat about finding a sense of belonging at Williams, the importance of seeking help and mentors, and building community for others like you.
Serving My Community
Born and raised in the City of Rochester, Senator Brouk returned home to continue her journey in public service and most recently being elected to represent the 55th district in the New York State Senate. In this conversation we chat about the ‘sparks’ along the way that led to her involvement in the community as well as the things that bring joy in her life.
Embracing the Unexpected
Aaron Carvell ’99 currently serves as one of the heads of Old Home Distillers, a family owned distillery in Lebanon, New York. In our conversation, we chat about taking risks, the joys of family, being a trombonist, and building community wherever you go.
We the Purple: Voices from the Road – Part 3
Listen to conversations with Rebecca Beavers ’93, Samra Brouk ’08, David Brown ’07, and Tamaan Osbourne-Roberts ’99.
We the Purple: Voices from the Road – Part 2
Listen to conversations with April King ’04, Cynthia Sharpe ’94, Jason Smith ’91, and Don White ’74.
Creating Space for Belonging
Zorelly Cepeda Derieux ’14, the newest member of the Alumni Relations staff and transplant after Williams into the Berkshire community, talked about identity, creating space, and her love of a good song. She has served as a strong mentor and participant locally, and brings a rich perspective to the alumni community. We hope you’ll join her in creating a more inclusive community together.
We the Purple: Voices from the Road – Part 1
Listen to conversations with Aaron Carvell ’99, Caroline Fan ’03 and Kevin Hsueh ’03, Eze Redwood ’06, and Alex Sherman ’13.
The Land is the Link
Twink Williams Burns ’06 and Markus Burns ’06, a Williams couple who met in the Frosh Quad, returned to Williamstown to raise their two children and to work in the Admission Office. Both active members in the community in their own unique ways, they shared their experiences connecting with the land (including new gardens!), learning about their own personal histories, and developing relationships with others.
Naming Love and Gratitude Out Loud
Ashley Weeks Cart ‘05, a deeply passionate Williams community member, shared with us the importance of her family, a love of knitting, and a dedication to bringing people together.