Alumna's Passion for Service Reflected in Role with UIW Alumni Association Board
Sustaita joined the Alumni Association Board of Directors in June of 2021 and is currently serving a three-year term
By Jorge Jones
Serving as a board member of the UIW Alumni Association has given Annie Sustaita ‘19 the opportunity to give back to the University in a unique way.
Sustaita, who graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Development, serves on the association’s social and community service committee. In this role, she seeks to create meaningful service opportunities for her fellow Cardinals -- something she has been familiar with since her time as a student.
“One of the most important things I learned while at UIW was the importance of community,” Sustaita said. “My professors, the UIW staff, and my fellow classmates were always welcoming and supportive. This has helped me understand the need and importance of faith and service.”
Living out the Mission of the University is something Sustaita continues to prioritize in her professional career at USAA, where she currently serves as a business process owner.
“My job reflects the Mission of the University through diversity, inclusion, equity and by engaging in respectful and challenging interactions to strengthen the organization and build relationships,” she said.
As a business process owner at one of the leading providers of insurance, investing and banking solutions to members of the U.S. military and veterans, Sustaita reflects on how her education at UIW prepared her for the day-to-day duties of a fast-paced working environment.
“My education prepared me to understand organizational effectiveness,” she said. “Problem solving, critical thinking, and communication are key skills for introducing new methods and practices within an organization.”
For Sustaita, inspiration from others is key in order to keep moving forward. While pursuing her degree, her classmates were one of her main sources of motivation.
“My greatest influences were my fellow classmates,” Sustaita said. “We were working people, some parents, others military service men and women who gave their nights and weekends to pursue a higher education for career enhancement.”
After such a rewarding experience at UIW, Sustaita knew she wanted to come back and serve her fellow Cardinals. Her passion and dedication on the UIW Alumni Association board allows other graduates to have an impact on their communities, even years after graduation.
“I decided to join the alumni association board to display my Cardinal Pride,” Sustaita added. “I have met so many great people along the way and I am blessed to be part of such a great community. I want to welcome new Cardinals and further strengthen our UIW alumni relations within the UIW community and beyond.”