We are excited to welcome Connie Sgarlata, associate director of Development and Alumni Relations at the University of Maryland School of Social Work. Connie is a proud UMSSW alumna. In this Q&A she shares more about her journey back to her alma mater and her vision for alumni engagement.
Q: Can you share a bit about your background and how you arrived back at the School of Social Work?
Connie: Coming back to the School of Social Work feels like returning to my roots. It’s what brought me to Maryland in the first place. I graduated in 1989 and spent the next 25 years working in social work, starting as a clinician and eventually becoming the director at Family and Children Services in Central Maryland. My focus was trauma treatment, especially working with children who had been abused. Eventually, I transitioned into donor relations and higher education, spending 11 years at a small liberal arts college in Westminster. There, I began working with students to obtain internships and engage in experiential learning opportunities. I later moved into a donor relations and stewardship role.
Q: How have your past experiences shaped your current role?
Connie: Everything I’ve done from clinical work, program management, grant writing, to donor relations feels like it’s coming together. My background helps me understand the needs of social workers and students. I’ve seen firsthand how impactful internships and community engagement can be. I enjoy networking and connecting people, which is essential in donor and alumni relations.
Q: What’s your vision for alumni and donor relations at the School of Social Work?
Connie: I want to help alumni and donors see the real impact of their gifts and how students are changing communities and the world. Alumni engagement is key. Read the newsletters, attend events, virtually or in person, and connect with students. Hearing their stories is powerful. My goal is to share those stories and build stronger relationships.
Alumni can give financially, but also with their time and expertise. Serving as practicum instructors is another great way to give back. It’s a win-win: students gain experience, and alumni stay connected to the school and its resources.
Q: What excites you about the future of social work and the School of Social Work?
Connie: The new building is exciting. It symbolizes growth and progress. I also love how social work is increasingly integrated with other disciplines like law, nursing, and medicine.
Social workers are showing up in more places, making a difference in schools, clinics, and communities. The profession has evolved beyond just clinical or macro tracks, offering students more paths to make an impact. Coming back to the School and reconnecting with alumni, donors, and students excites me. I am looking forward to showcasing the impact of social work.