The University of Toledo

UT Institutional Advancement Reaches Out to Alumni

The passing of years and the separation by miles haven’t lessened the fondness and gratitude that many University of Toledo graduates feel for UT. And helping to keep alumni connected with their university is a primary goal of the Office of Institutional Advancement.

In the past year, members of the alumni and development staffs have held nearly 240 events across the country. Events ranged from dinners in Boston to Tony Packo parties in Estero, Fla., to televised UT football game parties in San Francisco. The IA staff has often been accompanied on these visits by UT administrators and staff, including UT President Dr. Lloyd Jacobs and UT athletic team coaches.

Alumni and development staff have made two or three trips this past year to every city having a UT chapter, according to Ryan Hieber, associate director of alumni relations. He said most events have 25-30 alumni in attendance, although some functions draw as many as 150.

Mr. Heiber said alumni seem to enjoy the activities for a number of reasons.  “Some people appreciate the networking opportunities. Some are looking for information and updates about their University,” he said. “For most, it is just the companionship and the opportunity to reminisce about the memories of their days in college.”

This outreach is also beneficial to the University, he noted. “These events help spread the word about all the wonderful things we are doing to increase the prestige and appeal of The University of Toledo, which could help drive enrollment, as well.”

Andrew Gaines, major gifts officer for the College of Business and Innovation, said his travels have allowed him to re-engage UT alumni several states away. “These events provide them the opportunity to connect with someone from UT and to gain personal insight and information from around the city and campus that they otherwise might not be able to access. Many alumni and supporters have seen themselves land in areas of the country far removed from Toledo, but they all have a great affinity for UT. They enjoy having the opportunity to personally sit down with someone and catch up on their alma mater.”

Amanda Kessler, assistant director of alumni relations, said the reaction of alumni to UT’s continued progress has been overwhelmingly positive. “Many have been highly impressed at how progressive the University has been to keep each college up to date with trends in learning,” she said.

Mrs. Kessler said the UT Institutional Advancement Office and the Alumni Association act “as a bridge” from the alumni to our University.

“We keep everyone active with the University,” she said. “Even though they may not live near UT, they can still feel a part of it.”

For more about upcoming UT Alumni Association events, or to join the Alumni Association, visit toledoalumni.org or call 419-530-2586 or 1-800-235-6766.