Are you ready to connect, grow, and make an impact within our alumni community? We invite you to join our 12-week structured alumni Mentorship Program. Depending on your journey, you can serve as a mentor or participate as a mentee.
What to Expect:
• Mentors: Share your experiences, provide guidance, and help a fellow alumnus take their next steps.
• Mentees: Gain valuable insights, support, and professional advice from an experienced Avon graduate.
• Commitment: Meet every other week for 30 minutes (6 meetings total). The program begins on January 15th and ends on April 16, 2025.
• Convenience: Use the AOF Alumni Network platform to track goals and schedule meetings.
Why Participate?
• As a Mentor: Give back to the Avon community, hone your leadership skills, and gain fresh perspectives from your mentee.
• As a Mentee: Learn from someone who has walked the path before you, expand your network, and build confidence in your personal and professional life.
Click to join the Mentorship Program Group for Mentees here.
Update your mentee preferences for the best match!
OR
Follow these steps to sign up to be a mentor:
Log into your AOF Alumni Network account (register here).
Click to join the Mentorship Program Group for Mentors here.
Update your mentor preferences for the best match!
Empowering the Next Generation: Avon Old Farms Mentorship Program
Empowering the Next Generation: Avon Old Farms Mentorship Program
At Avon Old Farms, our alumni community is a testament to our strong bond, extending far beyond graduation. This network of Winged Beavers is a source of unwavering support in life’s pivotal moments. One of the most impactful ways to stay connected is through the Mentorship Program, which offers alumni the chance to form life-changing relationships and share valuable career and life advice.
The inclusive and diverse mentorship program matches individuals with successful alumni mentors from various industries and backgrounds. This ensures that all mentees can find a mentor who can offer guidance, support, and encouragement to help them navigate this critical phase. These relationships address immediate career challenges and promote long-term personal and professional growth.
Our Mentorship Program has seen remarkable success stories. Last January, we facilitated 32 successful mentor partnerships, many of which continued beyond the program’s three months. One such inspiring story is the partnership between alumni Jeffrey Glaze ’75 and Mikey Xie ’22.
“I wanted to become a mentee in this mentorship program because the Avon Identity is very meaningful to me,” shares Mikey. “I wanted to get help and guidance from someone who has been through much more but also shares this identity.”
Effective mentorship offers numerous advantages, both for the mentor and the mentee. For mentees, it’s an opportunity to refine career goals, expand professional networks, and gain insight into the realities of their chosen field. For mentors, it’s a chance to refine their coaching and reflection skills, share industry knowledge, and reignite their passion for their own career. It’s a personal growth and learning journey that inspires and motivates both parties, fostering a sense of inspiration and motivation.
“My experience at Avon was a great part of forming me as a student, athlete, and citizen. I wanted to share my experience to hopefully help a young Avonian along his way in life,” shares mentor Jeffrey. “I really didn't have a specific idea of what I would be sharing, but I have been a leader in business and nonprofits, and I simply hoped I could help a fellow Avonian in some small way.”
This mentorship pairing worked out tremendously, as Mikey shares that he joined the program because of a lack of experience in his prospective industry. “My mentor helped me workshop my resume and referred me to his connections as well as other Avon alumni to get me opportunities for calls and shadowing. I also faced other personal challenges, and my mentor taught me to be unperturbed and to face my problems with calmness and confidence.”
The relationship fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and self-awareness. Over the 12-week-long program, mentors guide mentees through milestones and share stories of success and failure, helping them navigate their journey more confidently and clearly.
“One goal we arrived at early would be getting Mikey engaged in a meaningful internship in the financial world of New York City,” explains Jeffrey. “We used the alumni directory to contact alumni who might be able to help, and one of our fellow alums stepped forward to help. I was fortunate to be able to just open the door. Mikey has an entrepreneurial streak, and we discussed him starting a painting business that I believe has actually happened. I think I merely validated his instincts and encouraged him to take the risk. Risk is scary for less experienced people. We just talked about the pros and cons, and I helped him understand that if you can accept the worst case, then the risk isn't really all that bad.”
Participants in the program often note the deep sense of satisfaction and connection that comes from sharing their knowledge and seeing their mentees’ growth. It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to the next generation of leaders while strengthening ties to the Avon community. The sense of accomplishment and fulfillment is something to be proud of and cherish, fostering a deep sense of pride and fulfillment.
“I was surprised at how open and honest he was with me, and the depth of our friendship,” Jeffrey continues. “We bonded, and for him being by himself in a foreign country, I hope I gave him some confidence and support. I hope I can have similar experiences with future mentees.”
And Mikey agrees that the mentorship was a success. “I think a key indicator of success was for this relationship to be more than just the mentorship program. For me, it was not merely a weekly report for a task, but a valuable opportunity to learn from my mentor and develop life skills and professional skills. I wanted to get help and guidance from someone who has been through much more but also shares this identity.”
Join Us in 2025!
January is Mentoring Month, and the program will return for a second year, from January 8 through April 8, 2025. During this time, alumni are encouraged to connect, share advice, and work together toward the mentee’s goals. The flexible program allows participants to adjust their involvement based on their schedules and other commitments.
The AOF Alumni Network provides weekly tips and guidance to participants throughout the program. This platform provides easy access to messaging, video chats, and scheduling tools, allowing for flexible and convenient communication between mentors and mentees.
Registration for this coming program opens in November and closes at the end of December. Mentors and Mentees will be matched and introduced when the program begins on January 8th.
AOF Alumni Network Highlight: Explore and Stay Connected with the Events Feature on the AOF Alumni Network!
AOF Alumni Network Highlight: Explore and Stay Connected with the Events Feature on the AOF Alumni Network!
Connecting with your fellow alumni and your alma mater has never been easier! With the Events feature on our AOF Alumni Network, you can keep track of upcoming gatherings, register for events, and even see who else is attending. Whether it’s a local happy hour, a reunion, or a networking event, you’ll never miss a moment.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you navigate and use the Events feature:
1. Log in to the AOF Alumni Network
Start by visiting our alumni portal at https://avonoldfarmsalumni.com. Use your login credentials to access your profile. If you haven’t yet created an account, click the “Sign Up” button and follow the prompts to get started.
2. Navigate to the Events Section
Once logged in, you’ll find the “Events” tab in the navigation bar. Click on it to be directed to the full calendar of upcoming alumni events.
3. Browse Events
Here, you’ll see a list of all upcoming events. You can browse by date, location, or event type, making it easy to find what interests you. Each event listing includes important details like time, location, and a brief description of what to expect.
4. Register for an Event
When you find an event you’d like to attend, click on the title to view more details. You’ll see a “Register” button—click it to sign up. Some events may have different ticket options, so select the one that works best for you.
5. See Who’s Attending
Are you curious about who else is going? Many events display a list of registered attendees. Visit the Event page to see familiar names and reconnect with old friends.
6. Stay Updated
Once you’ve registered, check your email for updates and reminders about the event. If there are any changes or new details, you’ll be the first to know!
Where to Find More Information
If you have any questions about using the Events feature or need help registering, feel free to contact the Alumni and Development Team at alumni@avonoldfarms.com for support.
Stay engaged and connected; we hope to see you at an upcoming event!
Alumni Directory: Unlock the Power of Connections: Introducing the AOF Alumni Network Directory Feature
Alumni Directory: Unlock the Power of Connections: Introducing the AOF Alumni Network Directory Feature
In today’s fast-paced, ever-connected world, the strength of the AOF Alumni Network is more important than ever. As a valued member of our alumni community, you already belong to an exceptional group of individuals who share your educational experience, values, and aspirations. But are you truly leveraging the power of these connections? With the feature of the directory on our alumni online network, we’re making it easier than ever to connect, collaborate, and grow with your fellow alumni.
What is the directory?
The directory is a comprehensive, user-friendly database designed to help you find and engage with other alumni worldwide. Whether you’re looking for professional opportunities, seeking guidance, or simply hoping to reconnect with old classmates, this feature is your gateway to the collective knowledge, experience, and opportunities within the alumni network.
Reconnect with Classmates and Friends
The directory allows you to search by name, graduation year, or class. Whether you’re rekindling old friendships or reconnecting with classmates, the directory makes it simple to bridge the years and distance.
Expand Your Professional Network
Use the directory to connect with alumni in your field, region, or industry. With the ability to search by profession, location, or expertise, you’ll find like-minded professionals ready to exchange ideas, collaborate, or even open doors to new opportunities.
Mentorship and Career Guidance
Are you looking for advice on navigating your career path, or perhaps you’re in a position to offer guidance to recent graduates? The directory connects you to alumni willing to mentor, provide career support, or share their experiences to help you advance your career.
Promote Lifelong Learning and Collaboration
In line with our commitment to fostering lifelong learning and leveraging alumni expertise, the directory also helps you find individuals engaged in ongoing educational initiatives or who can collaborate on projects. Whether through formal learning opportunities or shared professional experiences, you can access a vast pool of knowledge within the alumni community.
Exclusive Access to Alumni-Only Events
By staying connected through the directory, you’ll have the inside track on upcoming alumni events, workshops, and networking opportunities. Stay in the loop with exclusive invitations and ensure you take full advantage of what the alumni community offers.
How to Use the Directory
Getting started is easy. Log into your AOF Alumni Network account and navigate to the directory tab. From there, you can search by name, location, industry, or other customizable filters to find the connections that matter most to you. Update your profile to ensure you’re visible to others who may want to connect with you and start exploring the limitless potential of this valuable resource.
Your AOF Alumni Network, Your Advantage
The directory is more than just a tool – it’s a gateway to opportunity. Whether you’re looking to rekindle old friendships, seek professional advice, or offer your expertise to others, the directory empowers you to connect in meaningful ways. Don’t miss the chance to grow, learn, and thrive within the alumni community. Take a moment to log in, update your profile, and explore today!
This fall during Alumni Reunion Weekend, Avon Old Farms School will present
two members of the Class of 1984 with our Distinguished Alumnus Award.
Dean Graham '84
Dean grew up in Avon and attended Avon Old Farms as a day student from 1980 to 1984. He excelled academically and won numerous awards, including the Harvard Book Prize for academic excellence and high character combined with achievement in other fields. In athletics, he shone in varsity soccer, swimming, and lacrosse. Dean’s leadership was recognized in his election as Vice Warden of the Student Council and Head Day Student Monitor. At graduation, he received the Founder’s Medal for his service to the school.
Avon’s philosophy of hard work, brotherhood, scholarship, integrity, and sportsmanship continued to guide Dean after graduation. He attended Harvard University on a work-study scholarship where he earned an A.B. with distinction in history and played varsity lacrosse. After graduation, he played professional lacrosse in Australia before earning a Master’s in political philosophy at the University of Cambridge and a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law.
Dean began his career in Washington, D.C., as an attorney specializing in corporate finance and later became a nationally recognized finance executive and entrepreneur. In 2001, he co-founded and became the President & CEO of CapitalSource Inc., one of the largest independent commercial finance companies in the United States. Over the last two decades,
he founded and was CEO of several successful private credit and specialty finance companies.
Dean remained closely connected to Avon Old Farms throughout his career. He joined the Board of Directors in 2004, becoming the youngest chairman in the school’s history. Under Dean’s leadership, together with Headmaster Kenneth LaRocque, the Board spearheaded significant campus developments, including the Beatson Performing Arts Center, the Athletic Complex, and the Brown Student Center, which transformed Mrs. Riddle’s campus. In recognition of his service and dedication to the school, Dean was awarded the Alumni Order
of Old Farms.
Avon holds a special place in the hearts of the Graham family. Dean’s brother graduated in 1985, and Dean and his wife, Debra, were married in the Chapel. Their three children attended numerous events and camps at Avon, and Dean’s parents were awarded the Adams Medal for outstanding service to the school. In appreciation, Dean and his wife established the Graham Family Scholarship to provide financial aid to Avon students. Dean remains forever grateful to the teachers, coaches, and mentors who had a positive influence on his life’s journey.
Brett Jefferson '84
Brett arrived at Avon Old Farms as a sophomore in 1981, quickly embracing the Avon community. Inspired by role models among faculty and students, he thrived within Avon’s rigorous structure both academically and personally. He played varsity football, hockey, and lacrosse, captaining the 1984 lacrosse team, which was inducted into Avon’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009.
Brett attended Syracuse University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English and played on the varsity lacrosse team. The team was the NCAA Runner-Up in 1985 and won the National Championship in 1988. In 2023, Brett was named a Letterwinner of Distinction at Syracuse. In 1996, he received his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and moved to New York City to pursue a career in finance.
Starting at Smith Barney, Brett worked as a banker in a new asset class focusing on packaging complex credit instruments. In 2002, he joined Marathon Asset Management, becoming a pioneer in structured credit. In 2008, Brett founded Hildene Capital Management to focus on investments within structured credit. The name Hildene stems from the Lincoln family summer home in Vermont, where Brett was married. Hildene has since grown into a highly successful asset management business, winning multiple industry awards and becoming a preeminent firm in the industry with a reputation for innovative thinking. In 2022, Hildene announced the formation of Hildene Re, a captive reinsurance business to further its growth.
Avon’s influence was pivotal for Brett, providing the foundation and confidence to strive for greatness. His mother, Catherine, worked tirelessly to enable Brett to attend Avon. In 2012, in honor of her dedication, Brett and his wife, also named Catherine, established the Catherine Jefferson Foundation which led to the creation of the Edward A. Russell ’84 Scholarship at Avon. Eddie, who died tragically in 1995, was a great friend, teammate, and fellow captain of the 1984 lacrosse team. Brett enjoys meeting scholarship recipients and seeing Eddie’s legacy continue.
Brett and his wife, Catherine, live in Durham, North Carolina, with their three children: Tyler, Reese, and Izzy.
