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Community Involvement and ResiliencyPublished December 17, 2025
Building Community Through Connection: Inside the COA Alumni Association with Jessica Shreaves
This is Jessica Shreaves, the Marketing Director for WSRE! I’m honored to share that I’m currently serving as the President of the College of The Albemarle Alumni Association—a role that truly means so much to me. COA has been a major part of my life for years, and my journey here is a big part of what led me to this position.

As a long-time COA student and member, I graduated with three associate degrees—Medical Administration in 2015, Human Services in 2020, and Healthcare Business in 2021. Each program shaped me in different ways, challenged me, and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student, and those experiences laid the foundation for the passion I now bring to the alumni community.
Our Alumni Association meets several times a year to reflect on our growth, brainstorm new ideas, and map out the future of our organization. These meetings are where collaboration meets passion—each member bringing their own COA story and energy as we build something meaningful together. We truly believe there is strength in numbers, and every new voice makes our mission stronger and our impact greater.
One of the perks of being part of the association is attending COA events throughout the year. Whether it’s celebrating student achievements, engaging with faculty and staff, or connecting with current students, we love staying plugged into the heart of the college.
Beyond campus, we’re active in the community—working to grow our association, strengthen relationships, and show up where it matters. We take pride in planning fun and engaging events for alumni, staff, and students. These gatherings are not only a way to reconnect, but also a reminder of the shared experiences that brought us all together.
Serving in this role has been both inspiring and rewarding. I’m excited for everything we’re building and grateful for everyone who continues to support and grow the COA Alumni Association.
If you’ve ever been part of COA—whether recently or decades ago—you’re part of a powerful network of people who believe in education, community, and each other. And we would love for you to be a part of what’s next. When alumni come together, the ripple effects reach far beyond the college walls.
If you are an alumni or a current student and would like to join this fun-driven, inspiring association, here is the link that can tell you all about your options:
👉 https://www.albemarle.edu/for-the-community/coa-foundation/alumni/?fbclid=IwZnRzaAOME6ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe7ftsOLm9RVnDUdzHgRc0DWO9rodVeNFa2lDg-mfi-x_CYtdTiWA_tvrDJZo_aem_bv3g176m_iRF56rWKeCJyQ
Serving in this role has been both inspiring and rewarding. Every meeting, event, and conversation reminds me that our strength truly lies in our numbers — in the shared stories, backgrounds, and passions of our alumni community. Together, we’re building something lasting, meaningful, and full of momentum. I’m excited for everything ahead and grateful for everyone who continues to support, uplift, and grow the COA Alumni Association.

As a long-time COA student and member, I graduated with three associate degrees—Medical Administration in 2015, Human Services in 2020, and Healthcare Business in 2021. Each program shaped me in different ways, challenged me, and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student, and those experiences laid the foundation for the passion I now bring to the alumni community.
Our Alumni Association meets several times a year to reflect on our growth, brainstorm new ideas, and map out the future of our organization. These meetings are where collaboration meets passion—each member bringing their own COA story and energy as we build something meaningful together. We truly believe there is strength in numbers, and every new voice makes our mission stronger and our impact greater.
One of the perks of being part of the association is attending COA events throughout the year. Whether it’s celebrating student achievements, engaging with faculty and staff, or connecting with current students, we love staying plugged into the heart of the college.
Beyond campus, we’re active in the community—working to grow our association, strengthen relationships, and show up where it matters. We take pride in planning fun and engaging events for alumni, staff, and students. These gatherings are not only a way to reconnect, but also a reminder of the shared experiences that brought us all together.
Serving in this role has been both inspiring and rewarding. I’m excited for everything we’re building and grateful for everyone who continues to support and grow the COA Alumni Association.
If you’ve ever been part of COA—whether recently or decades ago—you’re part of a powerful network of people who believe in education, community, and each other. And we would love for you to be a part of what’s next. When alumni come together, the ripple effects reach far beyond the college walls.
If you are an alumni or a current student and would like to join this fun-driven, inspiring association, here is the link that can tell you all about your options:
👉 https://www.albemarle.edu/for-the-community/coa-foundation/alumni/?fbclid=IwZnRzaAOME6ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe7ftsOLm9RVnDUdzHgRc0DWO9rodVeNFa2lDg-mfi-x_CYtdTiWA_tvrDJZo_aem_bv3g176m_iRF56rWKeCJyQ
Serving in this role has been both inspiring and rewarding. Every meeting, event, and conversation reminds me that our strength truly lies in our numbers — in the shared stories, backgrounds, and passions of our alumni community. Together, we’re building something lasting, meaningful, and full of momentum. I’m excited for everything ahead and grateful for everyone who continues to support, uplift, and grow the COA Alumni Association.
