Alumni Spotlight: Cicely Alaniz, ’20 and ’21

Headshot of Dr. Charlie McCormick

FALL 2026

What first brought you to Schreiner?

When I first saw pictures of the campus, I knew I needed to see it in person. I fell in love with the sight of wildlife roaming between the buildings and the natural beauty that surrounded the entire campus.

Who was a professor, coach, or staff member who made a lasting impression on you?

It would have to be Clay McClure. He was my advisor, professor, and mentor. If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t have gained the real-world experience and networking connections that helped get me to where I am today.

Tell us a little about your career path since graduating from Schreiner.

After graduating with my bachelor’s degree in 2020, job hunting looked a little different than expected. Through a networking connection, I started a position as a Case Manager at a foster care ranch. While developing valuable transferable skills in that role, I was eventually able to return to my alma mater, Schreiner University! As the Campus Event Coordinator and Graduate Admissions Counselor, I learned so much about higher education and fell in love with the sense of community we can help create for students, much like the community I experienced as a student myself. Today, I serve as the Manager of Living Learning Communities at The University of Texas at Austin. I would not be where I am today without challenging myself, embracing new opportunities, and having mentors who pushed me to grow while believing in my potential.

What is something new you have tried or accomplished in recent years?

You know the saying, “How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.” That’s exactly what I got to accomplish while performing Mary MacDonald’s This Is Christmas with my church choir last year at Carnegie. It was an incredible accomplishment, both as a choir and as an individual, to perform such a meaningful piece and share the stage with so many talented musicians.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

I run a small farmers market at our local food park, and the planning, organization, and marketing keep me busy most weekends. I love creating opportunities for local vendors to grow their hobbies into businesses while also fostering a space where community can thrive. There is something about watching strangers become friends and seeing people come together over shared interests and local experiences.

What is a fun fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

I’m a huge fan of period pieces. I love watching shows and movies that are historically, or at least partially, accurate because I enjoy comparing how historical events are portrayed on screen with modern interpretations and storytelling.

What is your favorite hobby or pastime?

I love singing! Whether it’s with a choir, at a karaoke night, or simply on a drive to the store, you’ll almost always find me performing for my invisible audience.

What is the best trip you have ever taken?

Ireland! The lush green landscapes, historic castles, and potatoes prepared in every way imaginable made it an unforgettable experience. I loved exploring the country’s rich history, and I’ll never forget getting teased for asking for ranch dressing everywhere I went.

What is your favorite memory of returning to campus for a reunion or Homecoming?

Homecoming was incredibly nostalgic. My husband and I had the opportunity to represent Schreiner alumni on the field during the Homecoming game as the football team took the field. Seeing the team in full swing and standing alongside them was a truly heartwarming moment that I’ll never forget.

What would you tell a former classmate who hasn’t been back to campus in years?

Take a weekend trip! Come back and remember how beautiful the Hill Country is and how refreshing it can be to step away from the city. You’ll likely see some familiar faces ready to welcome you back, reminisce about old memories, and share a few stories from your time at Schreiner.

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