Sarah Reigner Mason ’99 has always found herself drawn to community and service. Now, she’s spearheading powerful F&M connections in her own backyard of Rhode Island.

Mason is a shining example of an active F&M volunteer, planning local gatherings called “F&M in.” Launched in 2022 by the Office of Alumni Engagement, “F&M in” provides points of connection for alumni, students, families and supporters around the nation thanks to the support of invaluable F&M volunteers like Mason.

“I had a great experience at F&M,” she explained, “but I don’t get back often anymore because I live far away, so it’s a way to stay connected with a part of myself that I really value and use some of my skills and my desire to get involved.”

Rhode Island’s inaugural “F&M in” event, a casual happy hour gathering in May 2024, was a hit; the opportunity not only reconnected Mason with F&M, but also connected alumni of all backgrounds and generations, providing opportunities to exchange stories and celebrate their shared F&M experience. 

“The older alums knew the school before a woman student could be there,” Mason recalled. “It was interesting to see how different [F&M] was, and yet we spoke similar languages and could connect right away because we have this shared place in our lives."

Encouraged by the enthusiasm from the first event, Mason jumped in to help coordinate a second gathering just a few months later. The Rhode Island group enjoyed a detailed tour of the Rhode Island State House led by Jennifer Smith Boylan ’87, a Rhode Island state representative. 

"It made me proud of her, and it was also really interesting to talk to a state representative,” Mason shared, appreciating the chance to connect with fellow alumni who are making a difference.

After graduating from F&M with a degree in American studies, Mason went on to earn a master’s degree in education from the University of Pennsylvania. Now at St. George’s School in Rhode Island, Mason is head of the ninth-grade dorm and a learning specialist in their Center for Learning. “I support kids in their learning with time management, planning, organization, study skills [and] all the academic skills that they can apply to all their classes,” she explained.

Reflecting on her time at F&M, Mason cites two major influences; her role on the lacrosse team and the guidance of the late Professor of American Studies David Schuyler.

"I had great teammates and coaches," Mason shared, noting the lessons learned in time management, resilience and achieving goals. She also fondly recalled her Hackman Scholar summer research with Schuyler, which provided insights into Lancaster beyond the campus, further shaping her appreciation for the local community.

Mason is excited to continue organizing events for F&M alumni in Rhode Island, with plans for both summer and winter gatherings. Whether it's picnicking at a polo event or meeting for a casual meal, Mason hopes these occasions will deepen alumni relationships, broaden the network and strengthen connections back to F&M.

From left: Mike Doremus '79; Ric Kohlsaat '85; Wendy Doremus '79; Joe Fischgrund '67; Jennifer Smith Boylan '87; Rebecca Deering O'Hara '99; Yoni Weiss '20; Fred Polner ’71, P’13; Sarah Reigner Mason '99; Nick Fazzano '73