Jeff Scola ’10 is on a mission. After serving several years on the Executive Board of the Alumni Council, he became President on July 1. First on his to-do list? To look at the council’s mission, role outside of annual meetings, and engagement strategy with the College’s ever-evolving alumni base.
Today, Endicott’s Alumni Council includes a more balanced collection of class years, majors, degree programs, and geographic areas than it ever has in the past. For Scola, Vice President of Sales for cybersecurity company Wiz, this means a chance to drive engagement by finding new ways to meet the alumni community members where they want to communicate, engage, and keep in touch. His vision for the next three years includes taking the deep sense of Gull pride within the alumni community and turning that into more tangible engagement, both on- and off-campus.
What are some examples of what the Alumni Council has been working on recently?
Right now, we’re working on more regional events and encouraging council members to own those. We’re also in the early stages of building out career-specific alumni groups to connect alumni in similar career paths, rather than just by major or program.
What do you think makes the Endicott community so special?
The family feel of the community is rare for a school of this size. There is passion and pride from alumni, students—everyone up through Dr. DiSalvo.
Do you have a favorite memory of your time here as an undergrad?
During the last few weeks of my senior season, I appreciated the unique opportunity to be part of the football team and part of the community as a whole. Just enjoying time on the field, in the locker room, and on the road—and knowing it was coming to an end—was really special.
Do you have any fun stories from your time as a campus tour guide?
During my freshman year, the residence hall we took tours through was my hall, and I would get absolutely roasted by my buddies in front of a group of 30 people.
What would you tell Endicott alumni who might be interested in getting involved but aren’t sure what to expect or where to start?
Get involved in the Gull Ambassador Program to dip your toe in the water. Also, if you have questions, reach out to me or other members of the Alumni Council and we’d love to chat with you.
What’s your favorite campus event to come back for?
Homecoming & Reunion Weekend. It’s one of the best weekends of the year, plus, selfishly, I like to see the football team play.
Why is it important for alumni to be involved in the community after graduation?
I think that there’s something inherently very rewarding about seeing how the institution has grown and changed for the better over time and knowing you’ll have an impact on how it continues to evolve.
Who was a positive influence on you back when you were a student?
Professor of History Stephen Slocomb, Professor of Philosophy Will Young, and former Associate Professor Chris Tipler. If I could take classes from those three today, I would do it. They may not even remember me, but I remember them.
What’s your favorite hobby?
Skiing. Picked it up later in life and fell in love.
Do you collect anything?
Matchbooks from restaurants.
What’s your favorite sound?
Easy. My daughter’s laughter. She was born last December and already has me wrapped around her finger.
What goal are you working towards right now?
I’d like to get myself back in shape—I’ve let myself off the hook a little bit with a newborn! But it’s time.
What’s your favorite way to unwind?
Skiing, going to the beach, running, golf, tennis. Anything outdoors that gets me away from a computer screen and out in the world is good for me.
What’s a skill you're proud of?
I feel like I can walk into any room, and regardless of who’s in that room, where they’re from, or how old they are, I can find common ground to have a good conversation with people. I credit some of that to my experiences at Endicott pushing me out of my comfort zone, and it’s helped me make some amazing connections with people I never would’ve met otherwise.
What do you wish you had more time to do?
Spend time with family and friends. It’s a cliché answer, but true.
What band or musician would you most like to see in concert?
The Killers.
What’s a cause that’s important to you?
Fighting cancer. I’ve worked with a few local grassroots charities that are focused on supporting families that are going through cancer treatment.
What do you love about your career?
I get exposed to many different businesses and help them solve problems that are impactful for them and the people who work there. I also have an opportunity to recruit and help to coach and develop and see folks progress in their career.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I try my best to be a morning person, and I’m successful sometimes, but I’m naturally a night owl.
What's your favorite food?
I love Italian food. A really good Bolognese and some red wine are tough to beat.
Are you an alumni looking to get involved? Become a Gull Ambassador and join a passionate group of highly motivated alumni, parents, and friends who partner with the Alumni Engagement office to connect the wider Endicott community back to the Nest.