Opportunity Awaits

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

I spent a good portion of the fall on the road, meeting with alumni who serve as volunteer network leaders around the country. From the New Hampshire Lakes Region to California, with stops in Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago and Denver in between, I was inspired and energized by the Wildcat spirit of our many dedicated volunteers.

In San Francisco we met with Anne Kirkbride and Ellen Kaidanow, wife and daughter of Tom Kirkbride ’53. Tom served as the head of the San Francisco network for more than 56 years, and when he died in October, he left behind some enormous shoes to fill—and a true legacy of love for UNH. In Los Angeles we arrived as network leaders were in the midst of planning an appearance by actor and writer Mike O’Malley ’88 at the famed Skirball Center. LA-based alumni have the benefit of the celebrity factor; last year, alumni gathered at the home of Emmy-winning television producer Marcy Carsey ’66. A visit to New York confirmed the success of network leaders’ efforts to provide a diverse and ambitious activity calendar— gatherings in Central Park, community service activities and executive leadership networking events—in a city where hundreds of events compete for attendance on any given night, and our visits to Boston included an inspiring Executive Breakfast Forum with Tim Collins ’85, president and CEO of EBSCO Industries, Inc.

Our travels were nothing less than encouraging, and truly validated our decision to move from the term “chapter” to “network” to describe the remarkable and complex web of UNH connections that exist beyond campus. Building on the work started by legends like Tom Kirkbride ’53 and the efforts or our network leaders, we have a very strong base from which to continue to develop affinity relationships across the United States.

So what does this mean for you, as a valued UNH stakeholder? It means opportunity— the opportunity to tap into UNH activities happening around the country, whether or not you’re an alum. Maybe you’re a parent who travels to New York City for business. Look for UNH activities while you’re in the city or contact the network volunteer leaders for lunch; your connections will help develop valuable contacts for your UNH graduate. If you’re a New Hampshire legislator attend our alumni gatherings and network with your constituents. If you are not near any of the UNH network locations don’t forget you can still participate in our online events to enhance your personal and professional connections. Our Wildcat family is better and stronger when you are a part of it. Make every day a great day to be a Wildcat!

Sincerely,