Alumni in Action

Della Marie Vickers McKinnon ’62 has witnessed Elon’s evolution through decades of change. Being a part of a remarkable five-generation family legacy that has both shaped the campus and deeply enriched the surrounding community.

The recognition follows her recent honor as a Top 10 CNN Hero in 2023, another milestone in the journey that began when she founded ScholarCHIPS, a nonprofit providing college scholarships and community support for students with incarcerated parents.

Drawing on a childhood shaped by constant change, Arron Jones-Williams ’13 turned his optimism and drive into a business devoted to giving rescue dogs a second chance. Through Rescue Treats, he continues the spirit of leadership, compassion and connection he first discovered at Elon.

Join the Gender & LGBTQIA Center and the Elon LGBTQIA Alumni Network for an inspiring celebration of love, family, and storytelling as alumni authors Jeffrey and Corddarryl Williamson-Rose share their children’s book "We Love You ForAva." The book is a powerful reflection on LGBTQIA family-building and the beauty of inclusive stories.

Inspired by her sister’s recovery, Carmencita Rosales ’20 discovered her passion for storytelling at Elon and turned it into a thriving career as a bilingual journalist and TV host. From launching WSOE’s first Spanish-language show to creating Tu Cita con Carmencita, she brings energy, resilience and representation to every story she tells.

Guided by curiosity and a passion for storytelling, Lillian Engel ’19 turned her love of editing at Elon into a thriving Hollywood career. From campus projects to major films like "Extraction" and "Joker: Folie à Deux," she embodies the power of hands-on learning, persistence and community.

The EAB has selected five new members to serve three-year terms — Whitney Butcher ’09 L’12, Stephen Dahlem ’07, Kristyn Green ’95 P’29, Scott Rehnert ’12 and Peter Walpole ’15.

Bill Troutman’s journey to Elon University is a story of happenstance—starting with his military service and a chance encounter that led him to discover a passion for theater. At Elon, he found lifelong friends and a life-changing experience that shaped his future.

From a thriving advertising career to a mission-driven role in student ministry, the Elon graduate embraces her new calling in Europe.

Madeline Paige ’19 has made great strides in a career she adores, crediting Elon for the ambition that propels her forward.