Alumni Disability Alliance (ADA) Recap of 2025:
On Tuesday, November 4 the ADA held its inaugural event, a holding space. With everything going on in the world, it’s more important than ever to have a space to simply be. This event was designed as a gathering where alumni and current students could slow down, connect and assess where we are as a community. This was a space to reconnect with old friends, meet new people in the community, find some shared joy, and a moment of peace.
The ADA is just beginning this journey and are thrilled for what’s ahead! We are working on our 2026 calendar which includes events such as MentorGrinnell, our open house at Reunion 2026, and another holding space event sometime this summer or fall. Keep your eyes on your inbox for more details!
We need your help:
Help shape the future of the ADA! We are looking for more members to participate in discussions and form committees such as programming and events, communications and outreach, storytelling and networking, student engagement, and much more! Come join the discussion on Wednesday, March 18 at 7 p.m. CST. Email
Sarah Smith-Benanti at smithben@grinnell.edu for the link to the zoom meeting.
MentorGrinnell:
Bring yourself to the (virtual) table with MentorGrinnell. This program is a joint effort between the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) and the Office of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR). MentorGrinnell creates an affirming space for students and alumni to connect over shared identities and experiences. Through six structured sessions, participants focus on: empowerment, self-advocacy, and building a network that truly represents them. Register as a mentor to help students as they move from being a student into professional communities. Register for the Alumni Disability Alliance MentorGrinnell here!
By joining MentorGrinnell, students and alumni not only invest in their own development but also contribute to cultivating a more inclusive, connected Grinnell community across all generations.
Become an official member:
If you would like to continue to receive communications, event invitations, and swag, please sign up to become a member of the ADA using this form.
Sincerely,
The ADA Working Group
Fae Townsend ‘01 she/her, Johana Lozano ‘11 she/her, Emmy Potter ‘24 she/her, and Em Huss-Lederman ‘24.5 she/they