Linda Hart Patton C’88, is an exemplar of “Forever Blue” – this year’s Founders Day theme and a testament to Spelman’s enduring legacy of sisterhood and exhibition of tenacity by students, alumnae, faculty and staff. Patton’s service to Spelman began as a first-year student in 1984 and has continued throughout her more than decade-long tenure as a Spelman employee. Infusing sisterhood into every element of her work, she even affectionately closes emails with “sisterly.”  

As Director of Alumnae Operations in the Spelman College Office of Alumnae Engagement, Patton and her team have planned numerous Founders Day celebrations – including Spelman’s 142nd Founders Day on April 11, 2023.

“Founders Day is such a day of remembrance for us all,” said Patton. “We take a moment to understand how we are connected to this vast legacy, whether as a graduating senior preparing to embark on their next chapter in life, as a first-year student affirming their decision to be a part of this long legacy, as an alumna, parent, faculty/staff member, or college friend,” said Patton.

Spelman alumna and Associate Director of the Office of Alumnae Engagement, Alyson Shumpert Dorsey, C’2002, has worked alongside Patton for more than a decade. As Patton and her team prepare for Reunion 2023, Dorsey can attest to the fact that everyone is working tirelessly to ensure that this year’s reunion – the largest since the pandemic – is especially rewarding for alumnae.

“As we transition back to pre-pandemic activities, we have been challenged to provide the experiences our alumnae are accustomed to as they celebrate Reunion while navigating a new normal in a post-pandemic era,” says Dorsey. “The good news is that Linda and our team have stepped up to the plate to offer and implement new ideas and processes that will enhance the Reunion experience for our over 800 registered reunioners!”

Patton’s continued service to the college, both as an alumna and an employee, is a true testament to the enduring legacy of Spelman College and the importance of sisterhood in creating a strong and supportive community. Her contributions serve as an inspiration to all members of the Spelman community to embody the spirit of "Forever Blue" in their daily lives.