A Gift That Keeps on Giving: Diane Scolaro

If you’ve ever attended a Norwich alumni event, chances are you’ve felt the quiet, steady influence of Diane Scolaro. For nearly 15 years, Diane has served as Associate Vice President of Alumni Relations — a role that blends behind-the-scenes precision with heartfelt connection. Whether organizing a national alumni tour, coordinating a memorable Homecoming, or turning a simple hello into a lifelong bond, Diane has been the heart behind the gathering.

Her events sparkle with creativity. Her energy never wavers. And her focus never strays from one purpose: bringing the Norwich community closer, one relationship at a time.

A Legacy of Milestone Moments

From coast to coast, Diane’s fingerprints grace some of Norwich University’s most meaningful milestones. She led the team that planned and executed the 2019 Bicentennial Commemoration — 56 cities, thousands of alumni, and one unforgettable celebration. She has mentored the alumni office team, overseen the publication of "Citizens & Soldiers: 200 Years of Norwich University," supported smooth presidential transitions, including President Richard W. Schneider’s farewell tour and LtGen John Broadmeadow’s, presidential inauguration, and built programs that will continue to shape the alumni experience for years to come. Her latest endeavor, the NU Alumni Travel Program, invites graduates to explore the world while deepening their Norwich ties.

“When I think of Diane, I think of all the preparation and planning she did for Norwich to celebrate our Bicentennial. She also personally carried every box, banner, and handout — you name it — to every one of the gala parties we held all over America.” — RADM Richard W. Schneider, USCGR (Ret.)

Women Kicking Glass: Honoring Trailblazers

Among Diane’s proudest achievements is Women Kicking Glass (WKG) — a bold, visionary initiative commemorating 50 years since women joined the NU Corps of Cadets and began living on campus. What began as a celebration of early pioneers grew into a movement of empowerment, storytelling, and community.

Working with the Women Kicking Glass committee, she researched the lives of Norwich women, uncovering powerful stories of resilience and leadership. Their dedication culminated in a moving exhibit at the Sullivan Museum and History Center, now a permanent tribute to women’s impact at Norwich. Many of these stories had gone untold — not because they weren’t extraordinary, but because, as Diane observed, “Norwich University alumni, in general, are very humble … and I think that’s particularly true of our women.”

From those stories grew action. Women Kicking Glass has evolved into a thriving network of mentorship and celebration, raising more than $300,000 to establish the Women Kicking Glass Scholarship, creating the Dressing for Success program, and preserving the experiences of Norwich women through an oral history project. For Homecoming 2025, the committee presented the inaugural WKG Alumni Award, a fitting reflection of the vision, perseverance, and deep belief in the power of connection created through Women Kicking Glass.  

As current chair of the WKG initiative, Karen Rowe Broadmeadow '83, reflects:

“In addition to possessing the many skills required for planning and executing events that bring the Norwich family and community together, Diane is approachable and welcoming. She exudes kindness, thoughtfulness, and has a special ability to make anyone in her presence feel valued. I thoroughly enjoy spending time with Diane in the variety of causes and events we are working on together in support of Norwich University.”

Admiration Across the Norwich Family

Diane’s influence resonates across the Norwich community. Her reputation for warmth, excellence, and integrity is unmatched.

As President John Broadmeadow shared during the 2025 Homecoming Alumni Parade this fall:

“Any of the alumni events that you’ve attended come off in a great way. To pull this many people together — to go and do what we do during Alumni Weekends and throughout the year — the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes is intense. Diane Scolaro has been at the heart of that. She has driven our Alumni Office for many years, and I am very, very proud to present to my friend the Honorary Alumna Award.”

A Legacy of Connection

In celebrating others, Diane Scolaro has written her own extraordinary chapter in Norwich University’s history — one defined by leadership, creativity, compassion, and connection. She has not only strengthened alumni ties but also inspired the next generation to carry the torch forward.

“It is always a delight and privilege to work with Diane on volunteer projects. She is a great collaborator with a more beautiful personality than her gleaming smile.” — Brig Gen Kim (Jones) Baumann '87, Rhode Island Air National Guard (Ret.), inaugural chair of the Women Kicking Glass Initiative

Although Diane will soon be stepping away from her position as Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations, she won’t be going far. Her impact across the vast Norwich community will still be felt as she remains on the Development & Alumni Relations team and continues to lead the Women Kicking Glass Initiative, the NU Alumni Travel Program, and other special projects. The Norwich family knows what an incredible privilege it is to have Diane’s guidance and luminous presence in Jackman Hall.

So, if you spot her on campus or at some other Norwich gathering, give yourself the pleasure of greeting Diane. You’ll likely be met with that familiar, radiant smile, and the words: “It is wonderful to see you!”

Because with Diane, it always is.

Do you have a suggestion for a Norwich alumna, student, or friend to be profiled? Submit your ideas to alumni@norwich.edu.

To learn more about the Women Kicking Glass Initiative or contribute to the WKG Scholarship, visit the Women Kicking Glass webpage.