AAAVC: Outstanding Service to Vassar Award

From its inception in 1984, the African American Alumnae/i of Vassar College (AAAVC) has been active in uniting alumnae/i of African descent and keeping them “visible, vocal, and involved” in the affairs of the college. Today, the group represents more than 1,700 black alumnae/i.

AAAVC’s role in raising awareness of the need for all types of diversity on campus has reaped great rewards for the college. As a result of AAAVC’s partnership with the college to bolster recruitment—among other initiatives—nearly 29 percent of the recently admitted Class of 2019 identify as students of color.

Members of AAAVC are also involved in career mentoring and over the years have worked to match alumnae/i with current students based on career interests and expertise.

Over the decades, members have served as mentors and advisers to students, faculty, and administrators alike. They have been actively engaged with the college and the Alumnae and Alumni of Vassar College (AAVC), serving as trustees, AAVC board members, AAVC presidents, and college administrators—many serve today. Most recently, AAAVC helped to create a set of recommendations for the college to consider as it addresses the issue of racial profiling on campus. The group continues to be a valuable resource, helping to ensure that people of all colors have a place at Vassar.

AAVC is proud of the partnership role the group has played in bringing the college to this moment. AAAVC’s contributions to the fabric of Vassar College have been and continue to be immeasurable.