Meet an Alumni Board Member

Joanne Gifford Allen

What year did you graduate & what was your major?

I graduated in 1955 with a major in secretarial science. (Was on Dean's list at least once! And I was on the Tor-Echo staff, helped name it in fact. I served as news editor.)

How did your employment relate to your major?

Thank goodness my parents sacrificed to send me to college! (And I worked three jobs while there to help pay tuition and room and board.) When I became a single parent in 1963 with four very young sons to raise, I was fortunate to be offered the first job I applied for, secretary to the superintendent at Wellsville Central Schools, because of my education. SUNY College of Technology at Alfred had given me the skills required to raise my family. I retired from WCSD after 40 years.

How do you feel your ASC education contributed to your employment success?

The teachers were all excellent; the courses were rigorously designed to prepare an individual for immediate employment and success in the business world.

Tell us something unique about yourself.

I can type 125 words per minute, and still know shorthand! I edited my high school newspaper, and am now editing the Allegany Arts Newsletter (and many publications in between). I just bought and am fixing up a 120-year old house. My collection of antique fruit jars numbers over 300, and I may have the County's largest compost pile out by my garden.

When did you become a member of the ASC AA board?

Elected June 19, 2002.

An officer?

2004

How have you been involved in the ASC AA as a board member?

In the usual ways: attending Board meetings and Bake at the Lake, doing committee work and serving as secretary, on Bylaws and Procedures, and as Nominations Chair.

What is the major change you see at ASC since your graduation - either on campus or curriculum offerings?

There have been many changes in the past 52 years! I am impressed with the caliber of programs now being offered, and thrilled with the addition of four-year programs leading to baccalaureate degrees. There are so many new buildings, and the campus is much expanded. Alfred has kept its focus clearly on "hands-on education" and character building, which will continue to be key to it's success.

What advice would you give to a new ASC student?

Work VERY hard, read everything you can get your hands on, listen to your professors (they know what they're taking about), join with others to DO things, make new friends and have fun. Stay focused on why you are here.  You will be rewarded in direct relationship to how much you invest of yourself.