CAAE Member Spotlight, October-November 2021

Name: Lauren Simione

Institution: University of Delaware

Q: Are you new to alumni relations, new to your institution, neither, or both?

A: I’ve worked at UD since 2004, always in the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. I’ve held various jobs and managed most of our programs over the years – Homecoming, Reunions, student programs, regional work and working closely with our Alumni Association. I stepped into my current role about 5 years ago.

Q: Best perk of the job so far?

A: I’m hard pressed to pick just one. Being on our beautiful campus every day helps me keep my own UD memories close. I love meeting students and alumni at events. Helping our UD football coach win Liberty Mutual’s Coach of the Year in 2011 where I got to meet Archie Manning and attend the Auburn vs. Oregon National Championships  was so fun and a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Q: Biggest challenge so far?

A: Trying to do more with way less – both people and financial resources. Having to manage through personnel reductions in the fall of 2020 was incredibly tough. This caused us to reprioritize our work knowing we could no longer do it all which has been both challenging and rewarding.

Q: If you needed to, could you sing your school’s fight song and/or alma mater?

A: Yes! I’m a proud graduate of UD and can sing every word to our fight song and alma mater.

Q: What would it surprise people to know about you?

A: I got bit by a big travel bug after working for a few years after graduation and decided to become a flight attendant. I saw parts of the US and the world I would have never otherwise seen and have some interesting stories about the people I interacted with and the experiences I had over the 3 years I flew the skies!

Q: Who would be your dream dinner guests?

A: I hope it’s a big table! Ina Garten, Jimmy Fallon, Reese Witherspoon, Chip and Joanna Gaines (maybe they’ll redo my kitchen), Billy Joel, my husband and daughters, and the cast of Friends. If I could magically bring back a few who have left us I’d add Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Lucille Ball, and my grandmothers.

Q: When I’m not on the job, you’ll find me … 

A: Reading, cooking and baking, crafting, traveling, enjoying the beach, watching my girls doing things they love, and enjoying a glass of wine and charcuterie with loved ones as often as I can.