Alumni Relations has officially become Alumni Engagement at Illinois State. The unit’s new name, which became effective May 11, 2018, places greater emphasis on Redbird alumni making connections with Illinois State and fellow alumni, and participating in the life of the University.

“Redbirds around the globe are actively making a difference in their respective areas of expertise and communities,” said Vice President for University Advancement Pat Vickerman. “Alumni Engagement is working hard to meet the interests of our growing base of alumni and the needs of the University. Strengthening connections with and among our outstanding alumni will help propel ISU to even loftier heights.”

In addition to offering a wide array of events and engaging in traditional outreach efforts, ISU is utilizing social media platforms such as Facebook Live and Instagram, and online communities to connect with alumni. The strongest alumni ties are sometimes found within student clubs, teams, and organizations. “It is no longer enough to engage with an alum only through their academic major,” said Executive Director for Alumni Engagement Kris Harding ’94. “Our students leave ISU with a depth of experiences in and out of the classroom, and we are developing alumni engagement opportunities to match the interests of our Redbirds.”

At the 2018 spring commencement last month, Illinois State welcomed the latest group of graduates to the Illinois State University Alumni Association. As our alumni rise to more than 215,000 living graduates worldwide, it is truly an exciting time to be a Redbird. Learn more about upcoming outreach activities through the Alumni Engagement events site.