Alumni Spotlight: Kara Schiaparelli ‘14

For Kara Schiaparelli ‘14, Shorecrest has been more than just a school; “It has been a community that has played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth."

After Shorecrest, Kara attended the American University in Washington, D.C., where she studied public relations and French with a minor in literature. She notes, “Shorecrest gave me a strong foundation in critical thinking, French pronunciation and a love for literature."

Following her graduation in 2018, Kara participated in the Disney College Program at Walt Disney World, working at the Magic Kingdom. “For six months, I sold Mickey Bars and created magical mornings, making lifelong friends along the way," said Kara.

Although she never expected to return to D.C. that’s exactly where she found herself in March 2019. Kara explains, “I joined DCG Communications as an Account Coordinator in their VA Office of Suicide Prevention (OSP) contract. Five years later I’m still at DCG, now serving as the Deputy Project Manager. In this role, I lead the development of deliverables such as the National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, monthly social media content for VA’s accounts and public service announcements."

Kara is most proud of her involvement in the rollout of the Veterans Crisis Line’s new number—Dial 988 then Press 1—which launched in July 2022. For months leading up to the launch, she worked closely with the Veterans Crisis Line and OSP leadership to develop a comprehensive communications strategy; high-level timelines; and a wide array of communications products aimed at publicizing the new number to veterans, their families and friends, and the public. She says, “When everything went live on July 16, 2022, I felt immense pride in all the hard work my team and I dedicated to this life-changing mission."

As an alumna, sister of alumna (Emma Schiaparelli ’22), and daughter of a Shorecrest teacher (John Schiaparelli in Kindergarten), Kara states, “This community has profoundly shaped my life. I am deeply grateful for the numerous opportunities I’ve had and the friends I made during my time at Shorecrest.” 

Kara’s advice to current students is that you don’t need to have everything figured out at the end of your senior year. “It’s okay to take your time to discover your path. Keep an open mind, explore different interests and trust that everything you experience will help shape your future in ways you might not expect." 

Kara is one of many Alumni Chargers with a wonderful story to share. Alumni Spotlights reflect Chargers in all phases of their lives and careers after Shorecrest. If you have an Alumni Chargers story to share, please contact Olivia Segalman at [email protected].