Office of Alumni Relations Gets a Familiar Face in Shafer

Shafer, who had been working in New York City in hospitality, not only had been a student at Flagler, but had also previously worked at the College as events coordinator in the Office of College Relations.

“I have lived in several cities and traveled quite a bit, but St. Augustine has always been home,” she said. “Living in NYC was an incredible experience, but even being a thousand miles away I was still very connected to the College. When I learned about this opportunity at Flagler, I knew it would be the perfect fit for me and am so thankful to be back on campus.”

Quickly following her arrival, the Office of Alumni Relations grew and Shafer was promoted to director while the former director, Margo Thomas, ‘06, was promoted to Senior Director. The office has now become more interconnected with the Office of Institutional Advancement, allowing for more support of Flagler alumni.

With the pandemic, it has been a challenge to connect with alumni like in the past. But Shafer said she was not deterred, partnering with other offices on campus to connect with alumni through more virtual settings and opportunities.

One of her initiatives has been Saints Share, a volunteer ambassador program, which serves as an outlet for alumni to share their stories, experiences and advice with fellow Saints. Within the first week of launching it, Saints Share had 273 graduates sign up to participate.

“I want to ensure every alum feels connected to the Flagler Family,” she said.

As an alumna herself, Shafer said she knows the level of passion alumni have for Flagler, and wants to harness that in order to engage each alum, whether they're in St. Augustine or 3,000 miles away.

“I want to highlight their accomplishments and make sure they know Flagler also has a passion for showing its pride in them and the wonderful things they're doing,” she said.

Tagged As

• Alumni