Colorado Academy announced that CA alumna Sonia Arora ‘01 will join the school’s College Counseling staff as Director at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year.
She joins Cathy Nabbefeld, who, after 24 years in a directorship role in the office, has decided to become an Associate Director, along with Associate Director Sara Purviance already on staff.
Arora comes to CA from The Archer School for Girls in Los Angeles, Calif., where she worked as the Co-Director of College Guidance, and prior to that, she worked in a similar capacity at LA’s Brentwood School. Prior to living in California, Arora worked at the University of Chicago as Assistant Director of Admissions and Director of High School Programs. She also has worked in a counseling capacity in summer programs at UC Berkeley, Tufts, and Phillips Academy. She taught English, speech, and debate at Phillips Academy and Poly Prep Country Day.
Arora holds a Master’s degree from Northwestern University in English Literature, and she completed her undergraduate work at Sarah Lawrence College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities in both U.S. and Women’s History. She will be bringing her husband and twins, Raj and Simran, to Denver with her.
“We are so excited to have Sonia Arora join our staff, not only as a CA alumna, but as a recognized and respected professional in this field,” says Nabbefeld. “Since graduating from CA and then college, Sonia has stayed in close contact with CA’s College Office, even serving as the Colorado Admissions Officer for the University of Chicago. We have been extremely impressed by her knowledge of the profession, her collegial presence at national and regional conferences, and her exceptional warmth with students and parents. Her work will continue CA’s extensive program that helps our graduates find the best possible college placement and fit.”
Says Arora, “Joining CA’s College Counseling staff brings my personal and professional journey full circle and allows me to come home to a place I know and love. I look forward to participating in the life of the school across divisions and decades.”
“Arora’s experience on both sides of the college admission desk, her extensive teaching and counseling experience, and her first-hand knowledge of CA will combine to provide our students with the highest standards of guidance and counseling throughout the college process. We’re excited to welcome her back to CA,” says Upper School Principal Dr. Jon Vogels.
Head of School Dr. Mike Davis applauded Arora’s impressive and extensive background in education, leadership, counseling, and her commitment to the kind of student-centered college process for which CA has become known. “We are thrilled to have her joining our outstanding college office, and at the same time, I extend my gratitude to Cathy Nabbefeld, who has worked to create one of the most highly respected college offices in the country. I’m pleased that she will remain a part of our team. Thanks, as well, to Interim Co-Director Bob Clagett, who has seamlessly shepherded students through this process with his incredible experience and depth of knowledge. Indeed, CA students and families are the beneficiaries of the work of this entire team.”