When I reflect on the years since my 1981 graduation, a feeling of appreciation comes to heart, as my Waynesburg University education still serves me well today. That intrinsic sense of belonging and a wide world of opportunities await Waynesburg University students when they graduate. By serving on Alumni Council, it is my hope to impact students' lives through my service, so that each and every one feels the strength and support of belonging to such a caring institution.
That hope, that vision, is what I felt when I entered my freshman year and worked on a dual major in Visual Arts and Psychology. I vowed to myself that I would get involved, have a balance of responsibility and goals, and be open, more outgoing, to everyone. While I was a senior in high school, my family was struck with illnesses, and I took on the responsibility of many hospital visits and household chores. Entering college became a time to find my perfect fit and explore opportunities. With the support I received from my Waynesburg University family, I am ever thankful that I achieved what I set out to do.
My college activities included cheerleading (captain for three years), art club, newspaper, yearbook staff (designed its cover for two years), student government, senior year on the judicial board, Homecoming court junior attendant and finally, Homecoming queen my senior year. Being crowned was such an honor given by the student body. I am forever grateful for the friendships, the memories, and the leadership opportunities provided to me in those four years, and especially for the people I encountered along the way, like the famous James “Fuzzy” Randolph, who always asked me how I was and had a kind word to offer. An unforgettable legend, a kind soul — Fuzzy is a Waynesburg legend who touched my life.
After graduation, I became an assistant buyer and married fellow alumnus Jim Kumor ('82). Coincidentally, we met after college, then married and moved state to state – PA, NJ, NY, IL, and OH—for his career. I became a stay-at-home mom to our three children, volunteering in their schools. Later, I took on a marketing role for a gas and oil product supplier. I am now retired and living in Uniontown, PA, spending time between Uniontown and the Raleigh, NC, area.
I am pleased to have been assigned the role of Assistant Secretary on the Alumni Council. Waynesburg is headed in a positive direction; past leadership restored the physical campus, making way for current leadership to ensure the success of today's graduates through well thought-out plans and curriculum changes. To today's students I say, “Study hard. Get involved. Volunteer. Welcome underclassmen. Be a mentor. Above all, be kind. No one ever forgets kindness.” Be the Waynesburg University student you were meant to be.