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The Rollins College Alumni Advisory Board plays a vital role in advancing the College’s mission to prepare students for global citizenship and responsible leadership, while creating lifelong impact and support for the 40,000+ global alumni community. At the heart of this work is the Executive Committee—a dedicated group of alumni volunteer leaders who guide the Board’s efforts and serve as ambassadors of the Rollins experience.

This year, we are excited to highlight the members of the Executive Committee and share their reflections on what inspires them in their service to Rollins and the alumni community. From cherished campus memories to professional expertise, each member brings a unique perspective to the Board’s work in alumni programming, volunteerism, and engagement. Their stories are a testament to the power of alumni leadership and the enduring impact of a Rollins education.

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Laurie Strehl ’75

President

President Laurie Strehl ’75 is enthusiastic about the new way the board has been reorganized to focus on impactful projects, so board members can participate in multiple projects appealing to members’ strengths and interests. During her time at Rollins, one of her favorite memories was going on a field trip to Pigeon Key. “We would spend the long weekend collecting, identifying and snorkeling down in the Keys,” said Strehl. She was also active in Student Government where she served as a member of Student Council/Student Senate. Strehl received her bachelor’s degree in biology and went on to pursue a career in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Strehl expressed gratitude for her time at Rollins, “Rollins prepared me to be flexible and look for the next way I should go.” After decades of a rich career in the scientific industry, she now works two days a week at Freedom Ride, a therapeutic horseback-riding program.

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Robiaun Charles ’94

Immediate Past President

Immediate Past President Dr. Robiaun Charles ’94 reflects on her time at Rollins with deep appreciation, especially in terms of her personal development and career. With a background in philosophy and experience in both non-profit and for-profit philanthropic consulting, as well as executive coaching with a focus on women in leadership, Dr. Charles brings a wealth of insight to the alumni board. This year, she is most excited for the professional leadership that will support the alumni board. “Also, what’s exciting is the leadership from Brooke as the new President and I know that alumni are a part of her vision,” said Dr. Charles. She finds it rewarding to be able to give back to Rollins because Rollins provided her with so much in her career readiness, but also in terms of her personal development. “It’s very rewarding to be able to give back to Rollins through service with my belief and hope that the work we’re doing through the alumni board is benefitting students today. A focus on engaging alums for a variety of different purposes should be benefitting our students today,” Dr. Charles added.

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Lisa-Marie Matyas ’15

Vice President

Vice President Lisa-Marie Matyas ’15 earned her degree in humanities and has carried the Rollins value of community with her ever since. “I found a profound sense of happiness being in community when I was a student,” she shared. That sense of belonging became a guiding force in her life, leading to fulfilling relationships, a rewarding career, and a strong sense of purpose. Now, through her service on the Alumni Advisory Board, she’s excited for the opportunity to give back to the Rollins community and contribute to the experience of future generations. Matyas is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and lifelong connection among alumni, ensuring support at every stage of life and throughout their career journey. “I’m passionate about brining my creativity and innovation to our engagement efforts so that every alumnus feels seen, valued, and an essential part of the Rollins story,” said Matyas.

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Joseph Iacono ’87

Committee Chair

Committee Chair Joseph Iacono ’87 sees volunteerism as a powerful way for alumni to give back and stay connected to Rollins. He earned his bachelor's degree in international relations with a minor in national security policy and credits the mentorship of Rollins professors with leaving a lasting impact on both his personal and professional life. That sense of connection continues to inspire Iacono as he focuses on expanding volunteer opportunities and career-building initiatives. “I am enjoying re-immersing myself to give back to the school in a more formal way,” he added. This year, he is especially passionate about creating more opportunities for mentorship, career conversations, and meaningful engagement that helps students feel supported by the Rollins alumni network. Serving on the Alumni Advisory Board has allowed Iacono to reconnect with the values and relationships that shaped his Rollins journey. His experience is a reminder that the Rollins connection continues beyond graduation—growing through service, mentorship, and community.

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Tyler Doggett ’04 ’08MBA

Committee Chair

Committee Chair Tyler Doggett ’04 ’08MBA received his bachelor's degree in economics and minored in communications, and some of his favorite courses were electives. “Rollins does an excellent job of offering elective courses that help guide students towards pursuing meaningful lives and productive careers,” Doggett added. He is looking forward to getting to know President Barnett, and under her leadership, continuing to witness Rollins strengthen its relationship with alumni. “I’m excited to welcome three new board members and to review the 2026 alumni award nominations. We must continue to celebrate the success of our alumni and work closely with Career and Life Planning to create intentional opportunities for alumni and student mentorship,” he said. For Doggett, the most rewarding aspect of serving on the Alumni Advisory Board is the ability to stay connected to the Rollins community, be in the know of all the exciting changes on campus, and sharing opportunities for fellow alumni to get involved and give back to Rollins.

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Donald Van Phan ’19

Committee Chair

Committee Chair Donald Van Phan ’19 reflects on how Rollins has always emphasized global citizenship and experiential learning. He received his bachelor's degree in business management and participated in a study abroad experience in London. While he was in London, he interned at a venture capital firm and took courses in international finance and global workforce management. “It was an opportunity to learn by doing, which helped me understand how interconnected our world really is,” said Van Phan. Now, he works in healthcare philanthropy where he cultivates relationships with patients and their families to connect them to meaningful opportunities to support research, education, and patient care at Emory University. For Van Phan, serving on the Alumni Advisory Board is all about connection. “I’m a connector at heart,” he shared. “It brings me so much joy to bring people together.” He is also excited about the intentional impact the Alumni Advisory Board is aiming to make this year. “We've improved our internal processes, actively listened to alumni feedback, and developed new initiatives based on what people truly want from their relationship with Rollins,” he said. “This year, we’re bringing that vision to life in exciting ways that will strengthen our alumni community for the long term.” Although Rollins is a small school, he believes its alumni network is strong, far-reaching, and filled with incredible people.

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Together, these leaders are shaping the future of alumni engagement at Rollins. Their commitment, creativity, and care ensure that the Rollins legacy continues to thrive on campus, in communities, and around the world.

Interested in getting involved? Learn more about the Alumni Advisory Board and how you can make an impact: https://www.rollins.edu/alumni-supporters/advisory-board/

• Alumni News