Karen Stoyanoff ’99

When Karen Stoyanoff ’99 applied to Assumption as an undergraduate, little did she know that she would eventually return and spend 17 years (and counting) as part of the University’s administration. Assumption is a significant part of her life (her father is an alumnus), which made it an easy decision to include the University in her estate plan.

Karen, who currently works as the director of recruitment and graduate admissions, was an accounting major and theology minor. She embraced the liberal arts aspect of an Assumption education, seeking out opportunities like a month-long summer archaeological dig in Israel, a Harvard-sponsored program she participated in at the encouragement of her anthropology professor Linda Ammons, Ph.D. “It was an enriching experience that I will forever be grateful for,” she shared. “My experiences with Professor Ammons and the many business faculty were the highlights of my Assumption education and one of the reasons I enjoy working closely with graduate faculty today. I would not have had the same Assumption experience without the dedication and passion of my professors.”

Karen, a mother of two, said including Assumption in her estate plan is an easy way of giving back and thanking the institution that gave her so much: an excellent education and now a wonderful work experience.

Below, Karen shares her Greyhound pride, how central Assumption is to her life and what moves her to give.

Tell us about your life today
I am a proud mom to two children, Harrison and Ava, who I hope will also become Greyhounds. Harrison is a high school junior interested in cybersecurity, and plans to apply early decision to Assumption this fall. I am entering my 20th year as an administrator at Assumption, and I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.

What is your fondest memory of the University as a student?
My fondest memory was my anthropology class with Professor Ammons. I was an accounting major, but I greatly enjoyed my liberal arts courses. Because of Professor Ammons, I was able to participate in a month-long archeological dig in Israel through Harvard University.

What was your favorite tradition at Assumption?
My favorite tradition was the monthly Club 21 events we had on campus. The college used Charlie’s—which was the Assumption Junction at the time—to create a temporary “bar” on campus. Each month, the Club 21 had a theme, and it was a fun opportunity to hang out with friends.

Why do you support the University with a planned gift?
I want the Assumption experience I had to not only exist for a long time, but thrive. For Assumption to remain authentic, modern and exciting, it takes investment of resources, both in programing and also in talented human resources both inside and outside the classroom. I want to be a part of the reason Assumption thrives.

Why is it important to give back to Assumption?
Assumption relies on the generosity of donors to keep the Greyhound experience alive. I benefited greatly from my education, and I believe it is important to recognize the impact it had on me and do what I can to be sure future students also benefit from an Assumption education.

What advice would you give to a new graduate?
Be a good human. Be kind. Be empathetic. Help others.

For more information on how you can support Assumption with a legacy gift, contact Melanie Demarais at 508-767-7332 or demarais@assumption.edu.