(Courtesy/Mr. Haddock)
Grade 12 gathered in the Dining Hall on Tuesday, February 13, to hear about life after graduation from Academy’s Alumni Office. With help from six Student Alumni Representatives, the Director of Development, Emily Campbell; Director of Alumni Relations, Michael Haddock; and Assistant Head of School for Development and External Relations, Erich Hunker, presented the journeys of Academy alumni.
Student Alumni Representatives, Zaina A., Tommy J., Stella L., Grace P., Ellie S., and Henry W. introduced office members and passed around king-sized candy bars during the interactive presentation.
The informal environment and the complimentary breakfast in a relaxed setting made the meeting most enjoyable. A question-and-answer format helped instill memorable knowledge. Subjects included “What is an alumni” and “Who donates to CA” as seniors learned about the events the Alumni Association and Alumni Office help direct. Some events included bringing students and alumni together, such as the First-Year College Transition, plus the winter and spring Alumni Luncheons. A mandatory spring luncheon with the Alumni Board for seniors is on Tuesday, April 23, at The Estate at New Albany.
Ms. Campbell discussed how the seniors could stay connected after graduation through “Giving Back.” Many alumni volunteer their time and talent through participating in organized reunions or providing internship opportunities to current Upper Schoolers. Others donate to the Annual Fund, with a commemorative $20.24 suggested. Students can choose where to direct their contributions, inluding the arts, athletics, curricular innovation, faculty, tuition assistance, and and even dedicate them to a special Academy connection. MS. Campbell also highlighted CA’s annual fundraiser, All Day 4 CA, which had over 1,100 Vikings from 45 states and seven countries participating last year.
Mr. Haddock talked about “Coming Back” through reunions, the Annual Golf Outing, affinity gatherings, the Athletic Hall of Fame ceremonies, and the Young Alumni Award Networking Reception. Traveling to Ohio isn’t always necessary, as the office coordinates regional receptions, such as those in San Francisco and New York City this past year.
The final slides covered the benefits of becoming a CA alumni because of the graduates’ extensive connections. Whether moving to a new city or looking for a new career, other alumni can offer advice and support.
To keep the community up-to-date, students should submit class notes that are featured on Academy magazines, or we may submit press clippings which are shared in the monthly Alumni Newsletter.
Maria M. said, “I found this presentation very illuminating on knowing what to expect! Being able to earmark donations for a specific field is something I didn’t know before, and now will definitely consider.”
