Columbia College appoints alumna Sara Snell Whitaker as Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement

President John H. Dozier announced the appointment of Sara Snell Whitaker ‘99, as the Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement at Columbia College. Since her graduation, Sara has remained deeply involved with the Columbia College community, serving as Executive Director of Alumnae Relations from 2011 to 2014, President of the Alumnae Association (which transitioned to the Alumni Association during her tenure), and most recently as a member the Columbia College Board of Trustees. Sara’s dedication to carrying out the Columbia College mission is unparalleled, and the College looks forward to her continued leadership.

Sara Snell Whitaker

When asked why she chose to return to her alma mater, Sara stated, “Columbia College is growing and changing, and our alumni association needs to fully reflect that. We must find innovative ways to engage the graduates of all our programs, providing opportunities to keep them connected not only to the College, but also to each other. My decade of experience in association management has prepared me for this challenge.” She went on to say, “I am proud of the rich history of my Columbia College, and I am embracing the new path we are on with excitement and enthusiasm. The visionary leadership of Dr. John Dozier brings a renewed energy to the campus, and I am honored to be joining his team.”

Sara’s Bachelor of Arts in English and minor in Communications from Columbia College prepared her for a career representing and facilitating the communication of public policy for the state of South Carolina. In the early 2000s, Sara served as a Constituent Service Specialist for the Office of U.S. Senator Lindsey O. Graham. Most recently, following her time as Executive Director of Alumni Relations at Columbia College, Sara worked as the Staff Associate for Affiliate Services for the Municipal Association of South Carolina. Sara’s varied experience throughout the state will undoubtedly be well-suited to serve the College and our vast network of alumni throughout South Carolina and beyond.

Dr. Dozier shared, “Sara’s lifetime of involvement speaks to her compassion for the Columbia College community. We have certainly been fortunate to benefit from her experience through her time as a member of our Board of Trustees, and we are overjoyed that her service will continue as she transitions back to being a member of our staff. Her leadership is sure to help usher the College and our incredible alumni base into a very bright future.”

Sara Whitaker will assume the position of Assistant Vice President for the Alumni Engagement on April 15, 2024.