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Flyers for Life

Young alumni spotlight: Beth Ann Saracco ‘09

By Beth Ann Saracco ‘09

Author bio
Major: Political Science/International Studies
Nominated by: Nina Jolani ‘09
Recognition Area: Learning and Service- Beth Ann is a public policy analyst and strategist for World Vision USA. She supports efforts such as helping to pass the Global Food Security Act, annual funding appropriations bills for the US State Department and the US Agency for International Development, and the Farm Bill. She is pursuing an MBA from Georgetown University where she is combining her professional experience and passion for learning to find strategies to help solve poverty and hunger issues and empower vulnerable communities around the world. Beth Ann has received recognition for her commitment to service and education including the Forte Foundation Scholarship, Bryce Harlow Foundation Fellowship, Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship and NetImpact Healthy Foods Fellowship.


When I graduated from the University of Dayton, I knew my educational experience had equipped me not only with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career, but even more importantly, a clear focus on my vocation. Discerning my vocation, a process of contemplating my skills, passions and desires and ultimately how I could use such gifts to serve others, led me toward a career in advocacy and public policy. Thus far, my career has been incredibly rewarding, and it has allowed me to walk closely with families and communities around the world determined to overcome poverty and hunger. At World Vision, where I currently serve as a senior policy advisor on food security and livelihoods issues, we seek to promote and foster life in all its fullness for all people. In many ways, I recognize this same vision is central to the mission of the University of Dayton as well.

Without a doubt, I now work in international development because of my decision to participate in immersion trips through the University of Dayton’s Center for Social Concern. The main takeaway for me was one rooted in the Marianist value of community. Throughout immersion experiences in Mexico, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic, I was able to meet so many determined and hardworking people, many of whom were parents, seeking and striving to provide their children with more prosperous futures, filled with opportunities beyond what they were given. These stories have stayed with me through the years and influenced my decision to pursue a career/vocation promoting economic development in under resourced communities. I think it’s important for all UD students and alumni to reflect on what it means to learn, lead and serve and how each of us, with all of our unique gifts and talents, will live out such principles in our world.

Currently, I am pursuing my MBA part-time at Georgetown University, where I focus on the intersection of business, public policy and international development. I seek to better understand the role the private sector can play in addressing various social and environmental problems. When I find some free time, I enjoy connecting with fellow UD alumni in the Washington, D.C. area, especially at basketball gamewatches. I also hope to move back to the Midwest and run for elected office someday, building off my experience in government and the nonprofit sectors to promote the interests and well-being of my local community.

“There are certain friendships in college that help you grow as a person. Beth Ann has lead by example for me through her professionalism, leadership, curiosity for learning, and passion to help others.” - Nina Jolani ‘09

 

Young alumni spotlights are an initiative of day10, the University’s young alumni group. Learn more about young alumni programs and how you can recognize a classmate.

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