Like many first-year students, Liliana Rafoth came to college without a clear vision for her future. But with UD’s abundance of resources, networks and opportunities, she knew she’d forge her own path.

It wasn’t long before she did. Rafoth still remembers a defining moment from her sophomore year. She attended an event in the President’s Suite at the Whitney Athletic Center. There, a casual chat with an alumna quickly turned into so much more when they realized a shared interest in science and the humanities. Approaching the world with an interdisciplinary background had unexpected doors for the alumna, who encouraged Rafoth to keep exploring the intersection of mathematics and anthropology. 

“It felt like a beautiful glimpse into my own future, and it was validating to connect with someone who had walked a similar path and was eager to cheer me on in mine,” Rafoth said.

Now a senior honors double major in applied mathematics and anthropology, Rafoth has used her time at UD to immerse herself in a variety of activities, including taking piano lessons, working as a research assistant and serving as the vice president of administration for the UD Student Alumni Ambassador (UDSAA) program.

In the latter role, she helps lead a group of undergraduate and graduate Student Alumni Ambassadors (SAAs) who foster school spirit, strengthen student-alumni connections and help educate peers about the importance of philanthropy. She helps ensure her fellow SAAs feel welcomed and supported, paying forward the same sense of belonging she received from peers and alumni. 

Rafoth’s continued dedication and leadership were recognized earlier this fall during the Parents and Family Weekend football game when she received the T. Muncy Keith Spirit Award. Presented annually by the University of Delaware Alumni Association, the $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a UD Student Alumni Ambassador who contributes significant time and effort to the organization's programs, events and initiatives.

“Liliana has done a phenomenal job building strong relationships with campus partners and serving as the primary point of communication regarding SAA support for campus events,” said UDSAA Advisor Katie Moyer, associate director of student and young alumni engagement. “She also plays a key role in tracking SAA volunteer hours and keeping our organization organized, ensuring that events and commitments run smoothly.”

The work comes naturally to Rafoth, who’s in her third year as UDSAA VP. 

“It feels amazing to be formally recognized for work I am passionate about, because I believe in the importance of UDSAA’s mission to encourage school spirit in both students and alumni,” said Rafoth. 

As an example, she thinks back on that chance encounter in the President’s Suite — and lasting advice — she received her sophomore year.  

“Having that conversation reminded me of how valuable UDSAA is in connecting students and alumni through shared experiences and passions,” Rafoth said. “That sense of community grows stronger each day, and I am honored to be a part of an organization that gives back and supports the legacy of generosity, connection and care that makes UD special.”

To learn more about the UD Alumni Association awards, visit https://www.udel.edu/alumni-friends/resources/scholarships-awards.