Like many individuals who have been in the same job for almost two decades, Villa Alum, Chiquita Foster, a 19 year veteran of the Buffalo Police Department was looking past her career with the police department and making plans for the future. As a DARE Officer with the Buffalo Public and Parochial schools, Chiquita enjoyed the classroom setting and began planning for her second career.

While searching for the right fit, Chiquita called the Admission office here at Villa on the very day they were holding an open house. Then recruiter, Linda Fischer was insistent that Chiquita come down and see for herself what Villa was all about. Somewhat reluctantly, she came down and was so impressed by the warm inviting atmosphere, she soon found herself registered for classes starting the next semester. She felt that this was truly "meant to be" because the process of applying and enrolling went so smoothly. In 1999 Chiquita received an Associate Degree in Education Studies from Villa, went on to Medaille College where she received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Educating in 2002 and her Masters in Special Education from D'Youville College in 2005.

What set Villa Maria College apart from the other schools was "the way the school community embraced me and made me feel special" says Chiquita. As an alum that is active in the Alumni Association, on the Alumni Advisory Committee, volunteers with the Vista Villa evenings and mentors with the Education students, Chiquita truly enjoys her continuing relationship with Villa. There is equity in giving back whether it is through participation in school activities and helping current or new students or financial backing. She feels that since Villa has remembered her and values her participation, she is eager to continue the relationship started many years ago.