Leaders gathered for a collaborative discussion about the future of the Elon alumni experience.
More than 20 of Elon’s key alumni leaders gathered in Washington, D.C., in June to set agendas and goals for the future of Elon’s vibrant alumni network.
During the retreat, leaders from the Young Alumni Council and various affinity networks and regional chapters gained valuable information that will improve all aspects of the Elon alumni experience.
The retreat was an opportunity for alumni leaders from across the country to plan the alumni engagement strategy for the new fiscal year. By bringing alumni leaders together, the retreat enables the sharing of best practices and the betterment of all regional and national alumni groups.
Regional chapter leaders took advantage of the opportunity to learn about and share aspects of each chapter. “For a local chapter leader like myself, the most valuable part of this retreat is the opportunity to connect with other regional chapter leads to brainstorm and share ideas and best practices,” said Theresa Gilligan '16, who serves as president of the Charlotte alumni chapter. Regional alumni chapters give Elon alumni the opportunity to stay connected to their alma mater through events, networking and a sense of community in their city.
Leaders from the Elon Black Alumni Network, Elon Latinx/Hispanic Alumni Network and the newly established Elon Jewish Alumni Network met to share challenges, successes and best practices of each affinity group. Elon’s affinity networks engage alumni who share common identities, passions and connections that exist throughout various affinities. Led by alumni and supported by staff, these affinity networks are continuously growing and empower both students and alumni.
During the retreat, the leadership team of the Young Alumni Council set their agenda and goals for the year. The council works in conjunction with the Office of Alumni Engagement and the university on programs and services for young alums and current students as they transition into their lives after graduation.
Director of alumni engagement Deidra Smith worked with alumni leaders as they took the future of the Elon alumni experience into their own hands. "It is truly amazing to see the dedication and passion our alumni have toward Elon,” said Smith. “Elon’s alumni leaders are critical to the university’s future goals and objectives. Our annual Alumni Leadership retreat allows alumni a space to collaborate and share best practices that help to shape the future of Elon University.”
“Successful and engaged alumni are what drive an institution into the future, and this reaffirms Elon's commitment towards bettering all alumni wherever they might live, work and play,” says Adam Gill '16, vice president of the Charlotte alumni chapter. “Together, Elon alumni will raise our entire community by ensuring successful alumni programs, support and experiences.”
To learn more about getting involved at Elon, visit the university’s alumni volunteer opportunities page.