Four Years, A Lifetime of Impact: Meet Laura Yoder DeCoste '94

More than three decades after graduation, the lessons, friendships, and experiences she gained on campus continue to shape her life. It's a connection that inspired her to stay involved almost immediately after graduation and one that eventually led her to serve on Muskingum's Alumni Council. Laura currently serves as the President of Council.

"Muskingum had such a profound impact on my life," Laura said. "I wanted to stay connected pretty much right after I graduated."

Today, that connection has grown into an opportunity to give back alongside fellow Muskies who share the same passion for the University.

"I was excited about the opportunity to meet and serve with fellow alumni across the decades and work together to give back to our alma mater in a meaningful way."

Although she only knew a few Council members from her own student days, Laura quickly discovered something special about the group.

"There is a special camaraderie that forms quickly across the Council," she said. "It's like we've all known each other for much longer."

That sense of community is one of the qualities Laura believes has always made Muskingum unique.

Looking back on her own college experience, one lesson stands out above the rest.

"Be open-minded and step outside of your comfort zone."

It's advice that has remained with her long after graduation and reflects the kind of growth Muskingum encourages, not only in the classroom but through the relationships and experiences that shape students into confident, engaged leaders.

Laura believes alumni play an essential role in continuing that tradition.

"At any point in our history, Muskingum would not have been what it was-or what it has become-without the engagement and support of our alumni."

For her, alumni engagement is about more than attending events or reconnecting with classmates. It's about ensuring today's students benefit from the same opportunities that have influenced generations of Muskies.

As she looks toward the future, Laura is energized by the people helping lead the University.

"I have had the opportunity to get to know many members of the faculty, staff, and senior leadership team, and their passion for Muskingum is palpable," she said. "Together with President Lilly, I am excited to see how their energy and ideas will flourish and build upon Muskingum's already strong foundation."

When asked if she could relive one day from her college years, Laura couldn't choose just one.

"I don't feel like I need to pick one because I have so many memories from those days that are still so vivid and feel so close to me."

Perhaps that's because the impact of Muskingum isn't measured in a single moment but in countless experiences that continue to resonate years later.

Asked what being a Muskie means to her today, Laura's answer was beautifully simple.

"Everything."

And when asked to finish the sentence, "Muskingum will always be home because…," she offered a reflection that captures why so many alumni continue to return to campus and remain connected long after graduation.

"...those four years continue to have an outsized impact on my life."

For Laura, Muskingum isn't simply part of her past. It's a community that continues to inspire, challenge, and connect her-a place whose influence grows stronger with every passing year.

Just for Fun!

Favorite campus food (or least favorite): Turkey tetrazzini (and she still wouldn't recommend it!)

Favorite study spot: The B&M Office in Montgomery Hall

Favorite professor: Donna Edsall, retired English professor

Song that reminds her of college: Paradise by the Dashboard Light or Fishing in the Dark

Coffee or tea? Chai tea

Favorite vacation destination: Aruba

Dog or cat? Dog

One word friends would use to describe her: Outgoing (or loud!)

Favorite Muskingum traditions: Baby Books and Varsity Revue