It had been two years since I graduated from the University of La Verne, and I had just finished catching up with a fellow alum. I was in my office in Murrieta, sipping coffee between meetings, when a quiet tug at my heart stopped me mid-thought. It was subtle but insistent. I found myself asking: What is this feeling? Why now? Is this something we all go through? And yes—what am I having for lunch?
That fleeting moment turned into a powerful realization: I missed being part of something that helped shape me. I missed the energy of campus life, the late nights prepping for presentations, the faculty who challenged me to think bigger, and the friends who helped me become who I am today. I realized I wanted to reconnect—not out of nostalgia, but out of a desire to give back. So, I came home to ULV—as a volunteer.
Coming back as an alum was a turning point. I discovered a vibrant, welcoming community, and through service, I found a new kind of purpose. I had already gained experience in my legal career that I was proud of, representing small to medium size business in civil litigation matters as an associate at Tyler Law LLP. But volunteering offered something different: personal fulfillment that complemented my professional journey.
I began mentoring students, joining advisory boards, and speaking on career panels. Each interaction reminded me why this university matters. Our students are driven, resilient, and hungry for guidance. Showing up for them became more than an act of service—it became a source of inspiration.
Alumni volunteering has also helped me grow. It challenged me to think beyond the courtroom and step into roles that stretch my leadership, communication, and empathy. I’ve had to listen more, mentor intentionally, and consider how my story can help others shape theirs.
I believe we often underestimate the ripple effect of giving time. While financial gifts are vital, sharing our experiences, networks, and insights can be just as transformative. One conversation can spark a student’s confidence. One story can ignite a dream. I’ve seen it happen—and I’ve felt it myself.
What surprised me most about coming back wasn’t how much the university had changed—it was how much I had changed because of it. I no longer view ULV as just a place I once attended. It’s an active part of my life now. I’m part of something living and evolving, something that needs our voices, our support, and our belief in its future.
For me, alumni involvement isn’t about reliving the past—it’s about investing in what’s ahead. When we reconnect, we strengthen the bridge between where we came from and where we’re going. We become mentors, advocates, and stewards of a shared legacy.
The University of La Verne gave me the foundation to build the life I lead today. And in coming home, I’ve found new meaning in giving back. Volunteering reminds me that we’re not just graduates—we’re lifelong members of this community.
So, to my fellow alumni: don’t wait for the perfect moment to reengage. Just start. Say yes to one event, one panel, one student coffee chat. You never know how much impact you’ll have—or how much you’ll grow in return.
Coming home isn’t going backward. It’s bringing our full selves—our experience, wisdom, and heart—back to where it all began and using it to light the way forward.
