Why I Believe in Alverno: Amy Oliden '09

In her own words, teacher Amy Oliden ’09 shares why she believes in Alverno and how her experience as a student shaped her.

As an alumna of Alverno College, I can wholeheartedly say that my experiences at this incredible institution have been pivotal in shaping both my career and my calling as an educator. Alverno’s unique approach to education—rooted in personal growth, reflection and a commitment to lifelong learning—has been the foundation of my success as a first-grade teacher for over 15 years at St. Matthew School, the very school I attended as a child.

Alverno was more than a college for me; it was a nurturing community that empowered me to grow into the person I needed to be, not just professionally but personally. The skills I gained through Alverno’s distinctive ability-based curriculum have become second nature in my daily life. From self-assessment to effective communication, each skill has enriched my teaching and deepened my relationships with students, colleagues and the close-knit school community where I work.

One of Alverno’s most significant impacts on my career was instilling in me the value of reflection — on my experiences, my teaching methods, and my interactions with my students and coworkers. This reflective practice has become a core part of who I am, allowing me to stay adaptable and continue growing.

Today, I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside colleagues who inspire me every day, including other Alverno graduates. It’s a unique journey — one that has brought me full circle from student to educator within a community that has always felt like home. In this role, I don’t just teach. I have the privilege of nurturing young minds and encouraging my students’ love for learning, something Alverno taught me to value profoundly.

One of my passions is helping future teachers grow and thrive. At Alverno, my professors were not only educators but mentors who guided me with patience and wisdom, a gift I strive to pass on to those who wish to enter this profession. Through workshops and various teaching experiences, I have also deepened my spiritual journey, motivated by the guidance of friends who have encouraged me to explore my relationship with God. It’s a journey that has added a new layer of fulfillment to my work and my life.

Being a part of Alverno is something I cherish and aim to stay connected to in any way I can. Whether through supporting current students, collaborating with fellow alumnae, or simply representing Alverno’s values in my everyday actions, I hope to continue embodying the lessons I learned. Alverno was and always will be a vital part of my story, guiding me as I strive to be not only a successful teacher but a compassionate, reflective and dedicated human being.

Thank you, Alverno, for your lasting impact on my life.