There is something to be said for a University that can create such memorable and lasting experiences that its alumni are willing to continue their journey as staff. Of the thousands of people working at York, more than 1,000 are also alumni.
To acknowledge the hard work, dedication and support of campus alumni, York’s Community and Alumni Relations team hosted the Homecoming Campus Alumni Breakfast on Thursday, Sept. 26 to kick off Homecoming 2013 festivities. This event not only celebrated campus alumni, but also offered them the opportunity to meet, catch up and connect while showing their red and white pride for York.
James Allan (left) and Carolyn Ward (BEd ’94, BA ’94), one of the event’s door prize raffle winners
“It’s incredible to see how many of our alumni have chosen to give back to their alma mater as staff,” said James Allan, executive director, Community & Alumni Relations. “This event is an important way for the University to recognize our campus alumni for all that they do, whether as staff, administrators or faculty members, and for us to come together as hundreds of alumni get ready to celebrate another Homecoming weekend.”
The early morning event brought out 82 grads, many of whom proudly displayed their York pride by donning their best red and white. The attendees made up a very diverse group, with alumni who graduated from as early as 1971 and all the way to 2013. The breakfast concluded with a door prize raffle that saw two alumni walk away with some great York memorabilia to help them carry on their University spirit.
Campus alumni connect with each other
“Our campus alumni are our chief ambassadors, sharing their experiences from York with co-workers, friends, family members, communities and, most importantly, students,” said Jeff O’Hagan, vice-president advancement. “These alumni are shining examples of how vital our graduates are to our success as an institution. Each of their individual stories inspire future York leaders to build upon the legacy they’ve created.”
O’Hagan paid tribute to the alumni community for their outstanding contributions to the University as donors. “An astounding five out of seven of our donors are York alumni themselves. You understand the future vision for the University better than anyone and, without your generous support, our success would not be possible,” said O’Hagan.
Jeff O’Hagan (left) with Steve Dranitsaris (BA ’73)
This event offers a special opportunity for the University to bring a specific group of York alumni together and celebrate their contributions to the University. “Given that our alumni and our staff are such important contributors to everything we do here at York, it is great to have this chance to celebrate those who fall into both categories,” said Allan. “This is only the beginning of a great Homecoming weekend spent reconnecting with York’s students, alumni, faculty and staff.”