Salem Resident Named To SSU Alumni Association Board Of Directors

SALEM, MA — A Salem resident and 200 graduate of the Salem State University geography and sustainability program is the newest member of the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation Board of Directors.

Alicia Depena currently works for the Social Security Administration as a claims specialist working with clients on matters from Medicare and policy changes to SSA benefits.

"As an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, I have similar lived experiences to many Salem State students," said Depena. "I am proud of my Salem State degree and look forward to advancing the AA&F's strategic priorities to ensure a college education is in reach for anyone who wants one."

The Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that promotes pride in the university and inspires philanthropy to invest in student
success.

The SSU Alumni Association said Depena's deep roots in the Salem community will add value to the AA&F's Board governance committee, which assists the Board of Directors in their recruitment and development.

"We are honored to have Alicia as the latest member of the board of directors," said Cheryl Webster Crounse, executive director of the Salem State University Alumni Association and Foundation, Inc. "This new appointment allows the AA&F to forge stronger relationships with our community as we advocate for inclusive and affordable education.

"Alicia is a proud graduate who is partnering with us to advance the good work being done at the university, and we are honored she has decided to pay it forward to future generations of students."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)