Kali Avans ’11
Donor Profile
Tell us a little about your professional path.
In August 2021 I earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Cabrini University. I'm a second-grade teacher in the School District of Philadelphia.
Tell us about your Dickinson experience.
My Dickinson experience was enriching. It prepared me with an understanding that learning is a lifelong process.
How has Dickinson’s useful liberal-arts education helped you?
The liberal-arts education that I acquired from Dickinson was very useful. It positioned me to be well-versed and strategic in my social and scholastic endeavors.
What inspired your gift to Dickinson?
My Dickinson education was made possible by the Philadelphia Futures Sponsor-A-Scholar program and by generous donors. It is only fitting that I pay it forward.
What do you hope your gift will do for fellow Dickinsonians?
I hope my gift provides access for students who are in need of financial assistance for their education. I am forever grateful for the generosity that was provided to me when I was a student.
Why do you feel that it is important to give back to Dickinson?
It’s important to give back to Dickinson because it’s just necessary for so many reasons. I think giving back is a simple way to assist the endeavors of an institution that provided me with so many resources.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Dickinson?
My favorite memories from my time at Dickinson are the countless conversations I had while sitting in the Holland Union Building. A lot of thought-provoking and interesting dialogue took place in that safe space.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I continue to be involved with my fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi, by engaging in community service and mentorship opportunities. Other than that, I enjoy time with my wife and family.
What is one piece of advice you would give to today’s students?
Leave Dickinson a better place than the way you found it. You’ll be amazed by what happens.
Avans is one of the thousands of donors helping Dickinson provide a scholarship to every student who needs one through the Campaign for Scholarships: Change a Life—Change the World. To learn more about the campaign, visit www.dickinson.edu/change.
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Published January 26, 2022