DURING THE HOLIDAYS, I spent time with two little girls, ages 3 and 7 months, who I consider my nieces. They happen to be the same age difference as my goddaughters, whom are 20 (a sophomore at Auburn) and 17. In my personal reflection, I thought about how old I’d be when the little ones reach the age of my goddaughters, and I shuddered to myself. But more importantly I thought about “what” and “who” I am to all four of them, and my responsibility to them. It’s much more than just “Auntie” or “Godmother.” I am a teacher, protector, counselor, advocate, example, role model and someone they can always depend on and trust. Someone who has their backs. Someone they may want to emulate one day.

When I think about my role models—my grandmothers, parents, aunts, uncles and cousins—as well as my godmother and the leaders I’ve encountered at Auburn and in my career, they may not have known I was watching them. And at times, I may not have been deliberately doing so, but every interaction—large or small, positive or negative—had an impact on me.

That leads me to us, and the role that we each play for future generations. Those who are in our more immediate sphere of influence, as well as future graduates of Auburn University. When I think about Auburn men and women, I can’t help but think of our Creed, which describes us as individuals who are responsible, thoughtful, hardworking, loyal and progressive. These are all attributes that we hope to pass on to the next generation. Whether they become teachers, partners at consulting firms, CEOs of their own homes or of Fortune 100 companies, these values are core to who we are and how we treat and interact with each other.

As alumni, we are proud of our university. Ours is a never ending cycle of responsibility, paying it forward and “having the backs” of each other and the next generation of Auburn alumni.

War Eagle!

Regenia Sanders ’95
President, Auburn Alumni Association

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