News Article

FSW Foundation Promotes DeArmond to Director of Alumni Relations

Aug 29, 2014

The Florida SouthWestern State College Foundation has promoted Rio DeArmond to Director of Alumni Relations.

DeArmond has been coordinating alumni relations for the foundation since April 2011.  She has been overseeing mailings, social media, alumni events, and creating affinity partnerships for the Office of Alumni Relations since May 2012.  As the new Director of Alumni Relations, she will also be responsible for fundraising.

“Rio has been with the foundation for three years and the choice was easy when we began the search for a new alumni relations director,” said Dr. Louis J. Traina, vice president of Institutional Advancement. “Not only was she already working closely with our alumni, but as graduate from FSW she understands what they’re expecting from an Alumni Association.”

The FSW Alumni Association kick-off occurred in March 2011 to commemorate the college’s 50th anniversary and now boasts a network of over 40,000 graduates. Graduates who register with the association enjoy lifelong engagement with their alma mater through networking events, volunteer opportunities, and invitations to special celebrations. They also have access to special discounts and services through the college and across the nation.

DeArmond, who is a proud 2005 graduate of FSW, wants to help expand the FSW Alumni Association.

"Being an alumna myself, I'm excited to be in a position to encourage and help all of our alumni stay connected with FSW," said DeArmond. "I am honored to take on an expanded role with the FSW Foundation, providing alumni with opportunities to give back in ways that support a positive experience for current and future students.”

DeArmond earned an A.A. in General Studies from FSW and previously worked as Director of Recruiting and Development at the Northwest Mutual Financial Network in Fort Myers before starting at the FSW Foundation. In May 2014 she completed her Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University.

Born and raised in Fort Myers, DeArmond enjoys giving back to her community. She serves with a number of organizations including NLC Kids at the Next Level Church; Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation Board of Directors; Programs Chair for the Women in Business Committee of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce; and others. She also assists in creating awareness of the services offered by Lee Memorial Health System as a member of Impact Initiative of Southwest Florida.

Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions of higher education. Annually serving more than 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees, and professional certifications. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW will debut its intercollegiate athletics program in the fall 2015. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information.

Last Updated: August 29, 2014