Yumi Belanga '96

What is your favorite SSSAS memory?
I have many special memories from my time at SSSAS, and even from SAS (St. Agnes). From Girl Scout troop meetings in Sinclair Hall at the Lower School to the Shrinemont bonding trips during freshman and senior year--there was always laughter, camaraderie, and impactful moments that shaped my view of what a team should look like. My most favorite memories come from the annual Sleepy Thompson Basketball Tournament. It was invigorating, for the whole school (not just the Upper Schoolers), to cheer on the players and coaches. Saints fans both big and small would pack into the gym to come to see their favorite team and players play amongst loud cheers and sometimes crazy audience outfits!   

What traditions/values/lessons from SSSAS have stayed in your life after graduating?
While the classroom instruction is exceptional, the lessons in goodness to each other, the environment, and our community are as well. Principles such as being empathetic for those around you and listening without judgment are still carried with me daily as I interact with colleagues and those close to me. 

What skill/experience from SSSAS was the most valuable to you in your career?
English class did not come easy for me, but as I reflect on the critiques of my papers, and feedback on my grammar exercises, I realize how grateful I am to have had that skill set refined prior to entering the workforce. My career has spanned from marketing to communications, to now IT and whether it’s a proposal, a business plan, or an email to a peer - writing with sincerity and thoroughness is key. 

What do you look forward to as our incoming Alumni Association Board President? What areas are you excited to focus on?
Our alumni are amazingly talented, successful, and fascinating people. We have jewelry designers, attorneys, professional athletes, and successful business owners among us. I’m excited to connect us all through local and virtual events this year. During COVID we’ve been disconnected from our communities, and I hope that in the coming months we’ll be able to revive those connections in a variety of ways. In addition to enhancing relations among our community, I’d like to continue and enhance activity within our affinity groups such as the Alumni of Color. The affinity groups are a great way to network and bond with peers that have similar interests. 

How does your role at the Military Officers Association of America relate to serving on the Alumni Association Board?
Although I went to college with an art focus, my IT role at my employer is centered more on the other side of my brain concentrating on analytical and technical skills. I have had many opportunities, though, to blend both my passions for creative thinking and logical approach in my contributions to the organization. Thinking through digital strategies has some parallels to the AAB. You’ve got to think about the user/member, how they will engage in your product or offering, and how to keep them excited for what’s coming in the roadmap.