Rita Andolina, MSW '88 & BA '80

Rita Andolina has spent a lifetime working to help others in need. She credits the degrees she earned at UB with helping her navigate and successfully reach leadership positions as a social worker.

Though recently retired after 34 years of service at the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, Andolina continues to be involved in the profession and share her knowledge with others. In addition, she has always been committed to volunteerism, saying "When you give, you get so much more in return." Her volunteer work with UB provides her with an active leadership role in promoting, supporting and assisting the growth of the School of Social Work, the university community and Western New York.

The lifelong resident of Western New York gives back to UB in a number of ways. Not only is Andolina a longtime member of the UB Alumni Association Board of Directors, but she is also chair of the School of Social Work Alumni Committee, a mentor for the Office of Career Services and an ambassador for the Office of Admissions. Andolina is also involved in a number of organizations concerned with various societal issues, and her work with the Multiple Sclerosis Society holds a particularly important place in her heart.