MidAmerica Nazarene University is preparing to launch a new alumni engagement initiative designed to help graduates build meaningful connections with one another long after commencement.
Alumni Hubs will create opportunities for MNU alumni to engage with one another around their shared locations, professions, interests, and passions. The first hubs are slated to launch in late summer or early fall of this year.
MNU’s Alumni Council developed the initiative through nearly a year of research, planning, and consultation
“Last year, we took an intentional step back and studied how alumni engagement is evolving across higher education,” said Pete Brumbaugh (’90, MBA ’04), executive director of university communications and alumni engagement. “We discovered that alumni today are looking for connections in ways beyond traditional reunions and annual events. They want opportunities to build relationships around where they live, what they do professionally, and the interests they share with others.”
Some hubs will be geographic, bringing together alumni who live in the same region, while others will connect graduates in affinity hubs through their careers, service, hobbies, and other common interests.
Why Alumni Hubs?
According to Brumbaugh, the new model is designed to answer three questions alumni often ask after graduation.
“Alums often want to know, ‘How can I stay connected to MNU? How can I meet alumni who share my interests or experiences?’ and ‘How can I make a difference alongside fellow Pioneers?’ We believe the hubs will provide a meaningful answer to each of those questions,” Brumbaugh said.
You Can Help
Plans will begin with a select group of geographic and affinity hubs before expanding opportunities in the coming years. To launch these hubs, the Alumni Council is currently seeking volunteers interested in helping lead, facilitate, or host future hub gatherings. Alumni who enjoy bringing people together, coordinating events, or building community are encouraged to express their interest.
“We know some of our most passionate alumni are already creating connections in their communities every day,” said Justen Wack (’06), chair of the Alumni Council committee leading the charge on the Alumni Hubs initiative. “Our hope is to equip those alumni leaders with resources and support so they can help strengthen the MNU family wherever they are.”
Additional details, leadership opportunities, and future launch announcements will be shared in the coming months.
Alumni interested in learning more about the initiative or volunteering to help launch a hub can visit mnu.edu/alumni/hubs.
