PROGRAMS AND OUTREACH Developing programming, hosting events and honoring alumni and friends of FSU are integral parts of accomplishing our mission of enriching the lives of the Seminole Family. 1. A Spring Homecoming 2021 webinar lead by University and Heritage Archivist Sandra Varry, on the history of FSU's campus. 2. Young Alumni Network President Herneshia Dukes (B.S. ’08), speaking at TEDxFSU in 2021.
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Hosted virtual, in-person and hybrid events average age of attendees was
35
With COVID-19 restrictions limiting in-person events, the programs and outreach team faced the challenging task of reimagining our approach to alumni programming. We received praise from constituents on our wide selection of both entertaining and educational virtual offerings and were grateful to have the ability to recognize notable alumni through our annual award ceremonies that were adapted to virtual and hybrid formats.
Events and Programs KICK OFF LUNCHEON
For nearly seven decades, the Alumni Association’s Kickoff luncheon has been a much-anticipated event heralding the upcoming FSU Football season. In order to keep the spirit alive amidst the pandemic, in 2020 our programs and outreach team transformed the event into a virtual presentation, while honoring the traditions of previous in-person luncheons. Voice of the Seminoles Gene Deckerhoff served as master of ceremonies and the luncheon included a segment with FSU Head Football Coach, Mike Norvell where he provided a sneak peek into the upcoming football season and star players.
WEBINARS
The Webinar Wednesday series continued to engage alumni by featuring presentations from experts 14
within the university community. These professionals provided viewers with valuable information on timely and relevant topics within their chosen field. In partnership with Academic Affairs, the Association launched The Three Torches Webinar Series to highlight faculty and alumni from the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship, FSU Dedman College of Hospitality, and the College of Fine Arts.
VIRTUAL NETWORKING
With few in-person networking opportunities available amidst the pandemic, the Association provided multiple virtual networking opportunities allowing alumni and friends to connect in a digital space. The events featured unique topics such as Networking Responsibly with Alcohol and Virtual Networking Tips.
TEDXFSU
In April 2021 the Alumni Association co-sponsored TEDxFSU, a program encouraging conversation and the sharing of ideas, and hosted the hybrid event in the association’s grand ballroom. The space had a limited capacity of 50 people to allow for social distancing and was live-streamed to all other registrants. The Association was exceedingly proud that Herneshia Dukes (B.S. ’08), Young Alumni Network president, was a chosen speaker at the event.
