Abigail (Hobson) Alves ’85 learned a valuable lesson while earning her bachelor’s degree in English, but it has nothing to do with grammar, syntax, or literary works.
“I learned that even if you think you can’t do it, you probably can,” says Abigail. “I took a class that was taught completely in Spanish, and I thought I would never pass. I did just fine.”
Abigail and her husband, Mark Alves ’85, met on campus at Westfield State and have lived in Cohasset for the past 20 years, raising their two daughters. Mark earned his degree in computer science and works in IT; Abigail is a preschool teacher.
“Where I grew up, it was a given that you went to college, but I learned the value of a good education as I went out into the
world,” Abigail says, noting she and Mark have intentionally stayed connected to the University by reading Focus magazine, staying in touch with friends from their campus days, and attending reunions when they’ve been able.
They are also generous donors to Westfield State, both individually and together.
“Mark and I are very happy to be at a point in our lives that we can give back,” Abigail says. “We are inspired to give to Westfield State because the school meant a lot to both of us. We made lifelong friends and had wonderful experiences. We have both had very fulfilling and rewarding careers that have provided us with very nice lives. We are inspired to help others achieve the same success we have had.”
Abigail feels extremely proud whenever she is out in the world and spots a young person wearing a Westfield State T-shirt.
“I tell them I graduated in 1985,” she says. “I also tell them they are going to love it there.”
