Building a Rochester legacy through family and community

Meet Alumni Interviewer, Class of 1994 Reunion Committee member, and Hillel Board of Directors member Louise Litt ’94, P’27

Tell us about your time as a student (favorite classes, clubs, memories, etc.)

I was a Rochester student in the early 1990s and had a robust academic and social experience. As an English major with a journalism minor, I had so many memorable classes. I was privileged to learn from some of the most esteemed professors, including Russell Peck and George Grella who transformed my way of thinking. Their energy in the classroom stayed with me and showed me the importance of truly loving your job. Outside of the classroom, I spent many long nights in the Campus Times office fueled by Ray MacConnell’s dirt cake and enveloped in the camaraderie that can only be achieved in the early morning hours. I cherish my memories with my Alpha Phi sisters on our hall in Gilbert basement, and later in Burton. I was a member of the Meridian Society and enjoyed sharing my enthusiasm for the University as a tour guide.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

I was lucky to be at the University of Rochester with the legendary Paul Burgett. He was both my Dean of Students and my professor. He connected deeply with me, as was this way with all students. His words gave me the confidence to know that with my Rochester education, there was nothing I could not do. He made it clear that he believed in me. These words propelled me through law school and have stayed with me through every challenge I have faced. I feel grateful to have been in the community with him.

What inspired you to get involved and volunteer? Feel free to touch on your most recent roles (Admissions volunteer, etc.)

My mother, Mina Aprill Aibel, Class of ’68 started doing Alumni Interviews the year I was born. Over 50 years later, she has interviewed thousands of students. No matter how busy she was, she always made time to give back to her alma mater. Inspired by her dedication, I began conducting Alumni Interviews as well, and have enjoyed sharing what I love about the University and getting to know each cohort of applicants. This past year, I joined the University Hillel Board of Directors and am on the 30th Reunion Committee with other members of the Class of 1994. My appreciation and affection for the school motivates me to take on volunteer roles and continue to stay connected to the University.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

Volunteering has not only kept me connected to my alma mater, but it has also kept the principles of Meliora in the forefront of my mind. Hearing about the latest advances at the University is always inspiring and I am proud to call Rochester my college home every single day.

What are you looking forward to next?

In 2023, I had the chance to return to campus as a parent. My connection with Rochester deepened when my daughter, Zoe Litt ’27 began her first year. It has been a thrill to see her thrive in a place so close to my heart. So much has changed (the Game Room in Wilson Commons is now a Starbucks!) but so much has stayed the same. Despite social media and other technological advances, the bulletin boards are still full of flyers and the spirit of Meliora still permeates the campus. I am looking forward to watching Zoe explore the many different facets of the University and am excited to see how she will make her own mark.

What advice do you have for others looking to get involved?

Go for it! There are many opportunities, big and small, and it is always enjoyable to meet other volunteers and learn about their Rochester experience. I have connected with alumni of all ages and it’s a lot of fun to hear about their favorite memories and share my own. Global Days of Service are a wonderful way for alumni to take one day to give back to their community and work together while doing good.