It’s week two and already I feel like I’ve learned so much. Working in the Alumni office is allowing me to stop, listen, and learn. Michael my direct supervisor truly provides me with the knowledge needed to successfully work in the Alumni office and in Student Affairs. Even though Michael is not a Student Affairs professional he still has the knowledge base because of his experiences. This past week the office has been preparing for the upcoming game as well as revitalizing chapters in Mississippi. There are 66 active chapters in Mississippi but Dr. Abraham would like to increase these numbers and revisit chapters who are no longer active.
I sat in on a conference call, with a, Alumni from Lee Co. The Lee Co. chapter is inactive and Michael was encouraging this particular Alumni member to get back involved and recruit other Alumni members in the area. Data showed 706 Alumni in Lee Co. and 107 of those actively give back to the university.
Before I get too far ahead of myself last week I signed legal documents pertaining to privacy rights of the Alumni members including their job title, financial status, and other information that may be revealed. The Alumni office contains a lot private information and if revealed members of the university may violate the privacy of Alumni members.
This upcoming Thursday I will be attending my first Alumni event in Memphis. I’m really nervous but excited at the same time. Unfortunately Michael will not be attending due to family issues but Janet who also works along side with Michael will be instructing me throughout the event.
I can’t wait to tell you all about the game and my first Alumni experience next week.
Gretchen
Gretchen,
ReplyDeleteYou are already learning a lot about the in's and out's of the Alumni Office. I would ask though that you continue to reflect on Michael's work. What makes him "not a student affairs professional?" What about his work stands away from what it is we strive to do? Things that make you go hmmm... :) I am also very excited about your opportunity this week to learn first-hand about alumni affairs. Enjoy the game and keep an eye out for everything. Soak in the experience and be ready to reflect on this work. Oh, and brush up on the plural and singular of alumnus, alum, alumna, and alumni...just to make sure you have it right! Can't wait to hear all about it!
Enjoy,
Dr. H