When Brooke Wegner ’99 MA ’03 first graduated from Alverno, she never imagined she would build an entire career in higher education. But Wegner spent more than 20 years working in Alverno’s Student Development and Success division, orchestrating commencement ceremonies and working with students to ensure their college experience was one that would not only transform them, but also leave them with lifelong memories and friends. Now, working as an event planner for the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, Wegner hopes to continue to have an impact on students’ lives. “I enjoy working in higher education so I can contribute to the growth and experience of students, hoping to make their college experience as transformational as mine was.”
A lot of young people are questioning whether they should even go to college. What made you decide to pursue your degree?
“I wanted to keep learning, and in particular, be able to dig into areas of specific interest and build professional skills. I knew that getting a college degree would open doors for me and allow me to build a career-sustaining network.”
How did you decide on Alverno?
“Initially I didn't want to go to Alverno because my older sister went there. I finally had the chance to go to a different school and be my own person instead of someone's little sister (or actually being mistaken for my sister). However, after visiting my other top college choices and finding them all lacking, I spent the weekend in the Alverno dorm with my sister and it felt like home. Not just because I was with a family member, but because of Alverno as a community. The campus was small and easy to navigate, the classes and faculty were interesting, everyone I met was friendly and helpful. Alverno immediately felt like a place where I could be myself and really discover who I wanted to be as an adult.”
Why do you think it's important for women to get an education?
“It's important for women to get an education because we don't live in an equal society. Women are still being paid less than men, we hold fewer positions of power in government and corporations. Educating women, building their strengths and confidence all contribute to building a more equal and just world, which benefits everyone.”
Who were you when you first arrived at Alverno, and who are you now?
“I was nervous, quiet and shy when I first arrived. My years at Alverno laid the foundation for who I am now, and certainly gave me the knowledge and skills to succeed professionally and personally. I feel more confident and capable in different settings, I'm open to new ideas and experiences, and I can identify my strengths and areas I need to improve on.”
How did Alverno play a role in shaping you?
“Alverno shaped almost every aspect of who I am. Aside from my parents, I would say my college education was the second most influential time in my life, and I'm incredibly proud of who I've become. At Alverno I was exposed to and gained appreciation for different kinds of art, literature and music. I learned how to work on a team, as well as how to lead a team and achieve common goals. I love Alverno's ability-based curriculum because it gave me transferable skills that have been used in every single job I've held since graduation. People would ask, ‘what are you going to do with an English degree if you don't teach?’ I would always say, 'I'm not worried, an Alverno education prepares you to succeed in a variety of different fields.' Alverno made me a critical thinker, a strategic planner and an ethical problem solver. Those are qualities every job needs.”
Is there any advice you would give to a young person trying to decide whether college was worth it?
“When I was a college student there were times when I was challenged, stressed and wondered if I was on the right path. But to this day, I never regretted going to college, and certainly never regretted my decision to go to Alverno. I found a second home at Alverno and created my family of choice with the long-lasting friendships I made along the way. My advice is never regret investing in yourself and your education. That investment will serve you time and time again and open up a million different opportunities and possibilities.”
