In his Inauguration address, UConn President Mike Hogan shared his vision of the University’s future and the work to be done in developing the next generation of leaders for our state, our nation and our world. Using a theme of “strength through unity”, he called for collaboration across the university and acknowledged the efforts of former faculty, staff, students, legislators and donors for UConn’s amazing progress.

When I talk to alumni, it’s clear they share President Hogan’s pride in UConn’s past and anticipation for its future. Often, they want to know how to translate that pride into action that makes a difference for UConn. Mike Hogan’s theme of “strength through unity” seems a very fitting answer.

The power of alumni impact lies in the collective action of a large, talented pool of former students. As individuals, alumni have a single voice. When the alumni gather together with former classmates and become involved as a united alumni body, their voice grows and the exponential impact on UConn’s future can be realized.

Groups of engaged alumni, working through the Alumni Association, can make a significant difference in determining UConn’s trajectory. It starts with the simple act of joining the Alumni Association. Alumni membership enables the Association to work on behalf of all UConn alums in connecting alumni, supporting students and strengthening the University. As members, the alumni are channeling individual efforts into collective action that benefits current and future graduates.

Alumni members will find many more ways, large and small, that they can make difference for UConn. I invite you to learn more about how you can become part of our collective effort through our website at UConnAlumni.com. While there, check out Mike Hogan’s full Inauguration address and learn more about his vision for UConn. There are 195,000 UConn alumni living around the world. Imagine the impact on your university if we can translate that pride into action. There is strength in our unity.

Lisa Lewis

Executive Director, UConn Alumni Association

Connecting Alumni. Supporting Students. Strengthening UConn.

Summer 2008