Together with the Hall Associates Career Center and the Virginia Western Alumni Association, TRIO Support Services organized a Mix & Mingle Etiquette Dinner designed to prepare first-generation college students for the professional world.
The dinner, which took place on May 1 at 419 West restaurant, provided a unique platform for students to engage with alumni mentors and learn the intricacies of business etiquette from presenter Amanda Mansfield, philanthropy director for the Virginia Western Educational Foundation.
Five alumni volunteers thoughtfully served as “Table Hosts,” offering their expertise and insights to emulate a real-world networking environment. The Table Hosts, who belong to a broad range of career fields, were: Councilor Stephanie Moon Reynolds, member of Roanoke City Council; Deirdre Perry, business insurance manager and AVP with MarshMcLennan Agency; Dr. Victoria Cox, national healthcare recruiter consultant with Veterans Affairs; Brian Amend, occupational health nurse with New Millennium; and Tony Saade, additive manufacturing entrepreneur with PrintAbility3D.
The Alumni Council’s commitment to fostering opportunities for alumni to give back was evident as they played an integral role in mentoring the students.
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Bernadette “Bern” Battle praised the event. “It was not only insightful but also incredibly beneficial for our students,” she said. “The professionalism and expertise in this area were truly commendable. The alumni mentors especially enriched the social learning experiences for our students.”
Students who attended agreed. “I learned a lot about etiquette and brushed up on things I already knew. I got to get to know other students and enjoyed meeting council member Stephanie Moon [Reynolds],” said student Bethany Fulp. As well as sitting on Roanoke City Council, Moon Reynolds is retired from service as Roanoke City Clerk.
“I really enjoyed the etiquette mix and mingle event. It was a great opportunity to learn about professional etiquette in a fun and engaging environment,” said Edwin Sainvil. “The experience has certainly boosted my confidence in social and professional settings.”
The dinner underscored the importance of making strong first impressions and navigating social settings with confidence. “I think we all understand the importance of a first impression,” said Anne Hogan, chair of the Alumni Council. “As a business owner and as an alum, I know how crucial it is for young graduates to have confidence in a business environment. I’m so pleased our own alums were able to assist in this small way to help these students know they belong in any and every environment they might find themselves in.”
Students benefit from observing professionalism in action. “I learned how to have a presence at business lunches and how to be the center of attention in dialogue and exchange of information,” said student Enaas Shawkat. “The basics of eating in a polite and elegant manner and in the presence of people with whom I have official business, and getting to know new people in an atmosphere of affection and respect, is a new beginning for practical and social development.”
Participation in the dinner part of a broader effort by the Virginia Western Alumni Association to support the professional and personal growth of students. Through such initiatives, the association continues to demonstrate its dedication to the success of Virginia Western graduates and current students, emphasizing the lasting impact of alumni mentorship and guidance.
For more information about the Virginia Western Alumni Association, please contact Philanthropy Relations Officer Anna Goltz at agoltz@virginiawestern.edu.
About the Virginia Western Alumni Association:
The Virginia Western Alumni Association is dedicated to fostering community and connections among the alumni of Virginia Western Community College, providing support and resources to help alumni succeed in their careers and personal lives. The association offers a variety of events, programs, and services to engage alumni and support current students in their educational journeys.
About TRIO Student Support Services:
TRIO Student Support Services at Virginia Western is a federally funded program providing vital academic support to 250 students who are either first-generation, from limited-income families, or have disabilities. The program’s mission is to enhance student retention and graduation rates.
