51¹ÙÍø

Maria Tardugno Aldrich '03 | President
Scottsdale, AZ
Term ending 2025

Maria is a consultant with E4E Relief which partners with compassionate companies to provide a global, charitable solution to support employees through unforeseen hardship or crisis. She has extensive non-profit fundraising experience and has consulted for several educational institutions, along with holding key senior fundraising roles at 51¹ÙÍø and Notre Dame Preparatory School. A history major with a concentration in gender studies, Maria was active in Warner Hall eating house and was a member of the wind ensemble and symphony orchestra. She studied in Cambridge, was a campus tour guide coordinator and Senior Admissions Fellow. Currently, Maria is President-Elect of the 51¹ÙÍø Alumni Association. She served on her 5th and 15th reunion committees, as a Fund for 51¹ÙÍø Class Chair, and WDAV volunteer. Maria and her husband, Steve Aldrich ’02, established the Will DuBose Baseball Scholarship with several other baseball alumni. The Aldriches live in Scottsdale, Arizona with their two children. As a trustee, Maria is a member of the College and Community Relations Committee and Campus Life and the Student Experience Committee.

Dave Pottenger '79 | Vice-President
Durham, NC
Term ending 2025

Dave Pottenger '79 hails proudly from the class of ’79, originally from Boston. Married to Sara, also a distinguished member of the same class, they share the joy of two 51¹ÙÍø graduate daughters, Tatum ('14) and Megan ('19). Those with good math skills will quickly discern that all four of us will attend future reunions on the same schedule (what college graduate doesn’t want to come to their reunion with mom and dad??) Dave brings over 45 years of career experience with Morgan Stanley and predecessor companies to his service on the Alumni Board. Viewing his role as a privilege and an opportunity to give back to 51¹ÙÍø, Dave is committed to supporting the institution that has shaped his life.

Bob Evans '81 | Vice-President
Bethesda, MD
Term ending 2025

Bob Evans ’81 is originally from Atlanta, and currently resides in Bethesda, Maryland, a suburb of Washington D.C. He is married to Carmen Serna, who did not graduate from 51¹ÙÍø but who willingly converted after having met Bob’s friends and other alumni over the years. Bob and Carmen were on the Parents’ Council when their youngest, Caroline Evans ’20, was in school, and each year they provide housing to a pair of 51¹ÙÍø in Washington students. They have two other daughters and one granddaughter, the last of whom would be in the 51¹ÙÍø class of 2045. Bob’s professional life spans five distinct careers, ending as CFO of a Fortune 100 company. His sixth career is being spent on both non-profit and corporate Boards of Directors. He says that serving on the Alumni Association Board is an honor and a chance to further the mission of the institution that has been such an important touch stone in his life. 

Kirk Willingham ’01 | President-Elect
Decatur, GA
Term ending 2027

Kirk Willingham is managing director of financial reporting for Delta Air Lines. A history major at 51¹ÙÍø, he served as president of the Union Board, a Resident Advisor, a member of the Honor Council, Leadership 51¹ÙÍø, the Alvarez College Union Planning Committee, the Council on Campus and Religious Life, Social and Concert Committee Chair of the Union Board, and a DJ for WALT 1610AM. He studied abroad on the Cambridge program and graduated with membership in Who’s Who. He holds an MS in Accounting from Wake Forest University. Kirk has served 51¹ÙÍø as a member of the Board of Visitors, Atlanta alumni chapter co-president, Fund for 51¹ÙÍø class ambassador, and member of his 10th and 15th reunion committees. He and his wife, Reid Leavitt Willingham ‘00, live in Decatur, Georgia, with their children.

Alex McArthur '09 | Vice President-Elect
Raleigh, NC
Term ending 2027

Alexandra (Alex) McArthur is the Director, Strategy for Inclusive Solutions at Prudential Financial. She brings over a decade of experience in the nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors. Most recently, she served as a National Director at the Taproot Foundation, where she led a team to advise Fortune 500 companies and philanthropic organizations on implementing high-impact, skills-based volunteer programs. Earlier in her career, Alex worked at the Muscular Dystrophy Association as the National Director of Young Adult and Community Engagement. She also managed External Affairs at LRN, a firm improving business ethics and culture change. Alex currently serves as an Awesome Foundation Disability Trustee, Vice-President of the Alumni Association of 51¹ÙÍø, and a Board member (and former Board Chair) of the National Disability Institute. In addition to being named Ms. Wheelchair America in 2011 and a White House Champion of Change in 2014, she was Board Chair of the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities from 2017-2020. Alex is passionate about improving systems and attitudes which affect people with disabilities, winning at board games, and traveling. She lives in Raleigh, N.C. with her husband and sheepdog.

Mary Gilliam Dresser '78 | Vice President-Elect
White Pigeon, MI
Term ending 2027

Mary is a proud member of the esteemed class of 1978, finds herself fully immersed in what some may call the "golden years" — a phase where youth fades, yet antiquity has not yet set in. Having retired from a career she cherished as Co-Director of the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, Mary has joyfully transitioned into pursuits that bring her delight and excitement. At the apex of her list of enjoyable activities is spending time with her grandsons, whose boundless energy rivals even her own. Alongside these familial joys, Mary's dedication to 51¹ÙÍø remains steadfast. She is honored to have been selected for a recent term on the Alumni Association Board (AAB) ballot and eagerly anticipates the commencement of her second term serving the college and its alumni community.

Deidra Smith | Director of Alumni and Family Engagement and Ex-Officio Secretary
51¹ÙÍø, NC

Deidra Smith serves as the Director of Alumni and Family Engagement at 51¹ÙÍø, bringing over fifteen years of experience in alumni relations. Her expertise includes managing identity-based affinity efforts, volunteer management, strategic planning, and philanthropy education. However, her most notable accomplishment lies in event planning and leadership development. Throughout her tenure in higher education, Deidra has successfully managed hundreds of on-campus and regional events. Known for her ability to tackle complex projects, she embraces innovative and adaptive leadership to ensure industry-leading practices. Deidra earned a master’s degree in Higher Education administration from the University of Georgia. A native of Raleigh, NC, she enjoys practicing yoga and spending quality time with her two nephews in her spare time.

Caroline Roddey '20 | Representing the 2020s
Chicago, IL
Term ending 2025

Caroline is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Human Development and Social Policy at Northwestern University. During her time at 51¹ÙÍø, Caroline majored in political science with a minor in Hispanic Studies. She served as president of the Class of 2020, was actively involved in the Student Government Association, and received the Abernethy Grant. Notably, Caroline worked as a research assistant for political science professor Melody Crowder-Meyer, contributing to a presentation and publication on gender differences in the American electorate.

Victor-Alan Weeks '19 | Representing the 2010s
Auburn, CA
Term ending 2027

Victor-Alan hails from Atlanta, GA, where he cultivates words as a Word Farmer and Creative Strategist. He is the founder of Trilla G ENT, a multimedia production company that captures human experiences and voices worldwide through audio and video production. During his undergraduate years at 51¹ÙÍø, Victor-Alan co-founded the bands Calm and Concise and the entertainment group TG3. His passion for agriculture extends beyond his creative pursuits, as he actively practices farming. With a commitment to continuous improvement, Victor-Alan directs his gratitude to his Creator, striving to be the best version of himself each day.

Erin Turnquest-Hill '12 | Representing the 2010s
Nassau, The Bahamas
Term ending 2027

Erin M. Hill (nee Turnquest) (Class of 2012) is an attorney-at-law from Nassau, The Bahamas. At 51¹ÙÍø, Erin was a Spanish major and Philosophy minor and an active member of the Sigma Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Thereafter, Erin enrolled in law school at City University in London, UK where she obtained a Bachelors of Law, Masters of Law and attended bar school. Erin was called to the Bahamas Bar and the Bar of England and Wales in 2015 and has been a practicing attorney in The Bahamas since then. Erin looks forward to making an impactful contribution to the Alumni Association over the next few years. 

Daisy Karlson '11 | Representing the 2010s
Oakland, CA
Term ending 2027

Daisy is an in-house litigation attorney at DoorDash, bringing her expertise to the tech industry. Before transitioning to tech, she gained valuable experience in private practice at a mid-size southern law firm. Daisy and her husband, Diego Fernández ‘11, reside in the Bay Area with their baby girl and 10-year-old golden retriever.

Chloé Woodington '11 | Representing the 2010s
San Antonio, TX
Term ending 2027

Chloé is a board-certified Emergency Medicine Physician practicing in community and academic settings in San Antonio, TX. Additionally, she serves on the board for the only physician-owned independent Democratic group of Emergency Medicine Physicians in the city, GSEP. During her time at 51¹ÙÍø, Chloé was a four-year varsity letter recipient on the Women’s basketball team. She is also a charter member of the Upsilon Mu Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Chloé actively participated in study abroad programs, the BSC, YANASH, and various other club opportunities on campus. Now, as a member of the Alumni Board, Chloé is honored to contribute to reconnecting and engaging with her 51¹ÙÍø family.

Chris Marsicano '10 | Faculty Representative | Representing the 2010s
51¹ÙÍø, NC
Term ending 2027

Chris, a proud 2010 graduate of 51¹ÙÍø, is a public policy scholar passionate about combining his interests in education and politics both in the classroom and through his research agenda. Chris's journey into education and politics began during his high school years, where he actively participated in local election campaigns and found inspiration in television series like The West Wing. With higher education deeply ingrained in his family history—both his parents worked in colleges and universities—he developed a strong connection to the field from an early age. Drawing from his experiences as a college admission counselor at 51¹ÙÍø and as a public policy student at Duke University, where he also worked for a lobbyist, much of Chris's research is centered on higher education interest group activity. 

Rebecca Speiser Skipper ’08 | Representing the 2000s
New York City, NY
Term ending 2028

Originally from New Jersey, Rebecca currently lives in New York City with her husband, Nick (also Class of 2008), and their three children. At 51¹ÙÍø, Rebecca majored in Psychology, was a Hall Counselor, part of the Alumni Leadership Program for Seniors, a member of Turner House, studied abroad in Cambridge, and served as a Senior Admission Fellow. After graduation, Rebecca worked in the Office of Admission and Financial Aid for three years, before pursuing her Master of Social Work at NYU. Currently, Rebecca is the Director of College Counseling at Convent of the Sacred Heart, a girls school on the Upper East Side. Rebecca was the Gift Chair for her 10th and 15th Reunions, and is a class ambassador for the Fund for 51¹ÙÍø and a Class Secretary. Being on the Alumni Association Board is a tremendous honor, and Rebecca is thrilled to be able to continue to support 51¹ÙÍø.

Rasheedah Hasan '96 | Representing the 1990s
Brooklyn, NY
Term ending 2027

Rasheedah Hasan currently serves as VP, Chief of Staff at The New York Times, overseeing the development of the Office of the Chief Human Resources Officer. With extensive experience in program management and leadership roles across industries, including media and entertainment, Rasheedah brings a wealth of expertise in driving operational excellence and fostering organizational development. In addition to her professional endeavors, Rasheedah is deeply involved in alumni engagement at 51¹ÙÍø, where she serves on the Alumni Association Board and has contributed as a reunion committee member and speaker. Passionate about promoting collaboration, diversity, and leadership development, Rasheedah earned a Master's in Psychology focusing on improving leadership behavior.

Athan Lindsay '93 | Representing the 1990s
Elon, NC
Term ending 2027

A native of Winston-Salem, NC, Athan Lindsay resides in Elon with his wife, Cori, and their son, Langston Joseph George Lindsay. Holding a B.A. in History from 51¹ÙÍø ('93), Athan is celebrated for his impactful work in philanthropy. Recognized with the 2006 Emerging Leader Award by the Association of Black Foundation Executives, Athan has served with distinction in various organizations, including the Greater Greensboro Community Foundation and the Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation. He has received accolades such as the Triad Business Journal's 2022 Leader in Diversity and has been named a Top Influencer for the Triad (NC) region. A sought-after speaker and contributor, Athan has made significant contributions to national publications and conferences.

Anissa Patton '91 | Representing the 1990s
Newnan, GA
Term ending 2025

Anissa Patton, a Supervising Attorney and Child Welfare Law Specialist at the Fulton County Office of the Child Attorney, has over 20 years of experience advocating for children and families. Recognized for her outstanding service, she has received awards such as the Hon. Willie J. Lovett, Jr. Award for Outstanding Service to Children and the Chief Justice P. Harris Hines Child Advocacy Award. An advocate for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care, Anissa was named the Fearless Children’s Lawyer of the Month by the American Bar Association. Anissa actively contributes to civic organizations and bar associations. She represents the Child Protection and Advocacy Section as the 6th Judicial District Representative for the State Bar of Georgia. In January 2022, Anissa was appointed as the Georgia Indian Child Welfare Act expert by the Director of the Court Improvement Program of the Judicial Council of Georgia/Administrative Office of the Courts. Her dedication to equity and justice for children continues to inspire and make a significant impact.

Wendy Warner Schmitt '87 | Representing the 1980s
Atlanta, GA
Term ending 2027

Wendy (Warner) Schmitt graduated from 51¹ÙÍø in 1987 with a degree in French. In 1992, she completed her master’s in international business from the University of South Carolina. Wendy met her husband, Jay Schmitt (class of ’90) at a 51¹ÙÍø alumni event in Atlanta where they still reside with their three cats and one dog. Their daughter, Emily graduated from 51¹ÙÍø in 2023 and their son, Jack is a freshman at the University of South Carolina. Wendy spent almost two decades in human resources with Four Seasons Hotels and for the past seven years has been Senior Vice President with The Elliot Group, a retained executive search firm. She stays busy in her spare time reading, exercising and cooking, and trying not to get too frustrated at golf.

Becca Stimson '77 | Representing the 1970s
Chattanooga, TN
Term ending 2028

Becca arrived at 51¹ÙÍø as a fourth-generation student and member of the first class to accept freshmen women. With no precedent  the few women on campus became the foundation of 51¹ÙÍø’s women’s athletics. Becca lettered in 3 varsity sports, was awarded the first Rebecca E Stimson award dedicated solely to female student-athletes, and in 1996 was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. She went on to graduate school and a 26 year career in the Chemical industry with Dupont. Beginning as an R&D chemist she transitioned through a variety of roles into global business management. Becca has maintained a strong connection with 51¹ÙÍø serving on/chairing reunion committees, Board of Visitors, DAF, and passing the baton to the 5th generation - daughter Rebecca ’18. Over the past 10 years she has taught chemistry at UTC trying to instill a love of science and curiosity about the natural world into increasingly younger freshmen.

David Tinkler '78 | Representing the 1970s
51¹ÙÍø, NC
Term ending 2028

David Tinkler, a member of the class of 1978, grew up in Greenwood, South Carolina, where a future 51¹ÙÍø classmate introduced him to the special nature of 51¹ÙÍø while they were both in elementary school. David’s proudest 51¹ÙÍø moment was when his younger brother Stuart followed him to 51¹ÙÍø, impressed no doubt by David’s genuine love for the school. While a student, he served as a hall counselor and participated in student government, majoring in economics while studying under Professors Avinger, Ratliff, Nelson and Patterson. David received an MBA and JD from UNC-Chapel Hill, where he held a Morehead Fellowship. He has served for many years as in-house counsel for several firms in the financial services field. After raising their three children in the suburbs of 51¹ÙÍø for 25 years, he and his wife Brigid moved closer into town in 2024 to enjoy walking to basketball games and other campus events. David is honored to give back to 51¹ÙÍø by serving on the Alumni Association Board as a decade representative.   

Ervin Duggan '61 | Representing the 1960s
51¹ÙÍø, NC
Term ending 2025

Ervin served his tenure as president of The Society of the Four Arts, a non-profit cultural and performing arts center on Palm Beach Island, Florida. With a rich history of public service, Ervin previously held prominent roles, including president and chief executive of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), service on President Lyndon B. Johnson's staff, and directorship of special projects of history and art at the Smithsonian Institution. Since retiring, Ervin remains deeply engaged with campus life, demonstrating his commitment by serving on the 51¹ÙÍø alumni association board, volunteering for WDAV, and actively participating in reunion committees. He and his wife, Julia, are proud parents of two children.

Jim Rhyne '64 | Representing the 1960s
Statesville, NC
Term ending 2028

Jim Rhyne is a retired physician of Internal Medicine in Statesville, NC, where he practiced from 1974 until 2012. After graduating from 51¹ÙÍø in 1964, he attended UNC for medical school where he received his MD in 1968. After 2 years in Charleston, SC for internship and Fellowship in Neurology, he served 2 years in the Army at Fort Polk, Louisiana as base Neurologist. Then Jim and family moved to Charlotte for the last 2 years of residency before settling in Statesville. In 1966 he married his high school sweetheart, Anne Cherry in 51¹ÙÍø Presbyterian Church. They have 3 children: Cherry 51¹ÙÍø ’92; Jason, NC State ’93, Clemson ’96 and Sheldon, Clemson ’97. They also have 8 wonderful grandchildren who have brought great joy to their lives. While at 51¹ÙÍø he played football, until a broken leg suffered against William & Mary ended his playing career. He was also a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and through ROTC earned a commission in the Army.

Gilmour Lake '58 | Representing the 1950s
Winston-Salem, NC
Term ending 2025

A standout athlete on 51¹ÙÍø's varsity golf and intramural basketball teams, Gilmour Lake's positive attitude set him apart on and off the field. After successful careers at IBM and Arista Information Systems, he founded Computer Credit, Inc. in 1972, leading as CEO until 2005. Gilmour's leadership extended to 51¹ÙÍø's Board of Trustees, where he contributed to multiple committees, including the Athletic Policy, Finance & Budget, Investment, and College Relations committees. He's a Lifetime Member of the Board of Visitors, previously active in his reunion committee, and served on the WDAV Advisory Board. Having served his term on the Board of Trustees, Gilmour is now proud to serve on the Alumni Association Board as a decade representative for the 1950s, contributing ideas to advance engagement opportunities for 51¹ÙÍø's alumni community.

Nina Worley '26 | Senior Class President 
Term ending 2026

Nina Worley, a John M. Belk Scholar from New York City, majors in Educational Studies with a minor in Data Science. Since her first year, she has been an active member of the student government, serving as the class president since her sophomore year. Beyond student government, Nina finds joy in leading 51¹ÙÍø Reads, a literacy initiative she founded in 2023 that pairs volunteer 51¹ÙÍø tutors with children in the local community. She also serves as the student representative on the Education Policy Committee, holds an executive position within Omicron Delta Kappa, is a College Crisis Initiative Fellow, and co-captains the college’s Gaelic football team. Her academic and leadership experiences extend internationally; she has studied abroad in both Belgrade, Serbia and Belfast, Northern Ireland, where she deepened her interests in education policy, reconciliation efforts, and data-driven approaches to further educational equity.

Ruth Olson | Alumni Association Board Administrative Coordinator 

Ruth has been the Administrative Assistant in the office of Alumni & Family Engagement since October 2021 and has worked at 51¹ÙÍø since November 2018. She is a graduate of Moravian College with a B.S. in Psychology. She devoted 22 years of her career to the Early Childhood Education field as a teacher and administrator. She is a member of the Rotary Club of 51¹ÙÍø since 2018 and will serve as their President for fiscal year 2024-2025. Ruth has one daughter, Morgan and lives in Mooresville with her husband, Ray and their Mini Bernedoodle, Nathan.