Kelly Davis

This issue of the Exchange features Kelly Davis, assistant director of alumni services. Davis is starting her sixth year with the University.

Q: Where are you originally from/where do you live now?

A: I’m a lifelong resident of Lancaster County. I was raised in Manheim and lived in Lititz and Lancaster for much of my adult life. We moved to Millersville last summer.

Q: What college/university did you attend?

A: I’m a proud alumna of Millersville University, where I graduated with a degree in business administration in 1995.

Q: What did you want to be when you “grew up”?

A: As a freshman at Millersville, I was a communications major, with big dreams of becoming an editor for magazines. I have an opportunity to do some writing and editorial work for the Millersville Review and alumni association e-newsletter.

Q: What drew you into alumni services?

A: The mission of the department is dear to my heart. I have the opportunity to interact with fellow Marauders and help them stay connected to their alma mater.

Q: Tell us about your job. What does it involve?

A: Our office is responsible for planning and hosting Homecoming and many other alumni events that take place on campus and across the country. I am responsible for maintaining communication with alumni through technology like our online community, monthly e-newsletter and social media. I also write the class notes for the Millersville Review.

Q: You have hosted trips for Millersville; can you tell us about those.

A: I’ve had the pleasure of hosting bus trips to Philadelphia Phillies games, the Philadelphia Flower Show and several excursions to New York City, most recently a guided tour of gourmet shops during the Christmas season with alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the University.

Q: You often are the host at alumni parties – do you enjoy that work?

A: Our office hosts many events throughout the year, and I attend most of those held on campus and in the surrounding counties. It’s a great opportunity to interact with alumni and reconnect them with their alma mater through news from campus and exchanging memories of our time at Millersville.

Q: Where is your favorite place on campus?

A: McComsey Hall. It’s a perfect example of how the campus has grown since my time as an undergrad. The space holds great memories for me, but the origami cranes in the lobby and the renovation of the Ford Atrium are reminders that Millersville continues to move in a positive, forward direction.

Q: What is the most memorable moment you’ve had at Millersville?

A: I think it’s going to be in May 2012, when my daughter walks across the stage at commencement. It will be a full-circle experience for me as a graduate, staff member and mom. I’m very proud to be a legacy parent.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about Millersville?

A: I feel a real sense of community on campus. Even as the campus grows and we don’t know everyone personally, you can always expect a smile from the student or staff member.

Q: What is your favorite book?

A: I’m not much of a reader, although I have a collection of books on my nightstand just waiting for me. Most recently I read Million Little Mistakes by Heather McElhatton. It’s not a conventional novel… much more like a “choose your own adventure” book for adults.

Q: Tell us about your gaming: What games do you play, how often, etc.?

A: I grew up playing board and video games with my family, and it’s still a big part of our family gatherings today. Most holidays end in a few rounds of Scrabble or Scattegories. My husband and I play the board game Cathedral and keep score of who’s won the most games over the years. When the girls are home, we get competitive with Wii or Xbox racing and sports games. If I have time, I log on to a multiplayer online game or download the latest game on my phone. Games help keep my mind sharp and spirit young.

Q: Tell us about your hobbies, I understand you like to knit?

A: My new year’s resolution for 2011 was to learn to knit, so I took a six-week class and have successfully completed a handful of projects (I still wouldn’t expect a scarf for Christmas!).

Q: Tell us about your family. 

A: When I met my husband, Dave, seven years ago, I became a second mom to three lovely daughters (now 22, 20 and 19). When they all started college, we adopted a Westie puppy named Zoey.

Q: What was the worst job you’ve ever had growing up?

A: During one of my management courses, our professor suggested spending the summer working in a manufacturing setting. I lasted eight long hours working third shift at a local pretzel factory trying to master packaging machines. I liken the experience to the “I Love Lucy” episode where she works at the candy factory. It was a real learning experience for me.

Q: If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

A: San Diego. The weather is near-perfect year round, the city has a lot to offer in terms of sports and culture and you’re always close to the ocean.

Q: Do you have a hero in your life or a mentor?

A: My mom. She places a high value on family, and she made being a parent her first priority. I followed her example, and my girls have benefited from being a part of a family with rich traditions and strong bonds.

Q: What is your greatest accomplishment?

A: So far, buying our house and making it a home for our family. I like to think that the best is yet to come.  Goals give you a future… there is always more to look forward to.