Campus Life
Parent Organizations
Introduction from GAAPA President Arlene Slaght
What motivated you to take on this role?
My husband, Whitney, and I have two sons who graduated from Gilmour Academy. Brandon graduated in 2013 and Spencer in 2017. During the eight years our sons attended Gilmour, I always enjoyed helping with functions and events whenever volunteers were needed. I served as President of the Women’s Club during the 2015-2016 school year and enjoyed meeting and working with many talented and dedicated ladies.
When our boys graduated from Gilmour, my husband and I decided to join GAAPA. We enjoyed the events and becoming acquainted with so many great people. We always found comfort in knowing the Gilmour community is like family. We will always be grateful for the strong foundation and outstanding education our boys received at Gilmour. A few years ago, when I was asked to join the board as President of GAAPA, I was honored and felt this would be a great way to give back to Gilmour Academy.
In this role, what are you looking to accomplish this year?
It is pleasing to plan various social events that parents enjoy and to see them reconnect and make new friends. The goal is to grow GAAPA into a larger organization by providing an opportunity for parents to stay connected to the Gilmour community.
This year we will have some new and returning events for the parents to enjoy. The Halloween Care Package Assembly Party,which is an annual event, will be held in October for moms to make packages to send to their college students. Trivia Night will take place in November and parents will enjoy fun trivia and heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. An Enchanting Evening in Spain will be held in February and will feature wine and food pairings from the wine regions of Spain. In May, GAAPA will host a social, before the group enjoys the spring play at The Lorraine and Bill Dodero Center for Performing Arts.
What would you like to say to your Board concerning the upcoming school year?
I am very grateful for all of the time the Board and the GA Advancement Office has given to ensure successful events for GAAPA. Many thanks to Board members Lisa Mack, Treasurer; Christina Peterson, Correspondence Secretary; and Cheryl Sommer, Recording Secretary for the time they give to the GAAPA organization. I look forward to working with these ladies this year and truly appreciate their dedication and for all they do for GAAPA and Gilmour Academy.
What would you like to say to any parents who are thinking of joining GAAPA?
We would love to see you at our upcoming GAAPA events this year. The events are not for couples only. If your spouse is not able to attend, please come and join your friends. As alumni parents, you are a vital part of the GAAPA community. Join GAAPA today and stay connected. Like your children who have graduated from Gilmour, you can always call Gilmour “home.”
