Meet Mount St. Dominic Academy's New Alumnae Relations Director

Building Bridges Between Mount Alumnae and Community

Mount St. Dominic Academy,Neighbor

Posted Fri, Jan 17, 2025 at 12:53 pm ET

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By Melia Hillman, a Senior at Mount St. Dominic Academy

Mrs. Jenna Villani, the new Director of Alumnae Relations at Mount St. Dominic Academy, is the embodiment of a “people person.” With nearly 15 years of experience in alumnae relations, she brings an unparalleled ability to foster connections and strengthen community bonds. Her warm and engaging personality was evident during the Mount’s Alumnae Milestone Reunion in November, where she effortlessly connected with attendees and demonstrated her commitment to keeping the Mount community united.

Mrs. Villani serves as the vital link between current students and the alumnae network. By organizing speakers for events like the L.E.O. Entrepreneurship Program and the Capstone Research Program, she ensures that Mount students benefit from the wisdom and experiences of alumnae mentors and speakers. Her work reflects the Mount’s Dominican Pillars, particularly community, which she believes is the foundation of the sisterhood that defines the school.

A lifelong resident of Essex County, Mrs. Villani has always admired institutions like the Mount, which shape the fabric of the local community. “Our reputation precedes us,” she shares, adding that she always hoped to work at the Mount in some capacity. Since joining, her transition has been seamless. “Everyone’s been very friendly and welcoming,” she says, adding that she feels privileged to be part of such a vibrant community.

Mrs. Villani’s role is more than a job—it’s a calling. She thrives on engaging with students and faculty, finding joy in their enthusiasm and unique perspectives. The Mount’s traditions, including the much-anticipated “Mountmas” season, have introduced her to the school’s energetic and joyful spirit. From Spirit Week to the Christmas concert, she embraced every aspect of the celebration with an open mind and a cheerful heart.

Outside of work, Mrs. Villani loves baking as a creative way to connect with others. Her signature s’mores cookies, a favorite among faculty and students, reflect her passion for bringing people together. She also finds inspiration in her role as a mother, crediting her children with helping her grow as a communicator and fostering her creativity in both her personal and professional life.

Mrs. Villani’s dedication to fostering meaningful relationships and her commitment to the Mount’s mission make her a remarkable addition to the staff. Her open-door policy and approachable demeanor inspire students to seek her out, whether for advice or a friendly conversation. Through her work, she continues to strengthen the legacy of the Mount and ensure that every alumna remains connected to this extraordinary sisterhood.

NOTE: Mount St. Dominic Academy senior Melia Hillman is a member of the Mount’s Journalism class. As part of the coursework, some of the articles written in that class are being published in the media, showcasing the students’ journalistic skills and providing real-world writing experience.