Utah Tech University’s Alumni Ambassadors are involved with events on campus such as Homecoming and D-Week, while also helping current students be prepared for post-graduate life by building networks and developing leadership.
Kasen Moore, a senior information technology major from Pahrump, Nevada, is the vice president of public relations. Moore promotes the events and activities by creating videos, flyers and coordinating advertisements on campus.
“My favorite way to connect alumni with students is through our Networking Night event,” Moore said. “This event is similar to speed dating but with professionals. At each Networking Night, we choose a field of study and invite alumni who currently work in that field to sit at different tables. Students rotate between tables every 10 minutes, giving them the opportunity to ask questions about how alumni got started in their careers and what to expect in the real world.”
Through networking events, students gain career insights, network and hear experiences. Guidance is provided from alumn so students can be more ready to enter the workforce.
The UTAA council provides opportunities for students with a variety of positions ranging from alumni programming to recruitment. The requirements to be a UTAA member are to be a full-time student, have at least a 2.75 GPA and be an undergraduate student.
Delanie Evans, a senior management major from Justin, Texas, is the chief of staff. Evans manages the budget, organizes shifts and assists in planning the events along with other duties.
“I highly encourage students to join Alumni Ambassadors,” Evans said. “It’s a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow students, alumni and community members while gaining hands-on experience that strengthens your resume.”
Through the UTAA program, members are able to give back to the St. George community by organizing events for the community such as Spring Fest.
“Through this experience, I’ve developed leadership skills, gained real-world experience and learned how to balance responsibilities, skills that truly prepare you for life after college,” Evans said.
With the skills that are learned, UTAA scholarships are also provided ranging from $500 for director positions to full in-state tuition scholarships for members with larger positions.
“Being in Alumni Ambassadors has helped me understand how big of a role alumni play in supporting current students through career advice, mentorships and opportunities,” Moore said. “I believe the relationships built through this organization create a strong sense of community that continues after students leave campus. It is rewarding to be part of something that helps students feel more prepared and connected as they move forward in their careers.”
UTAA members have experiences and memories that will stick with them in their post-graduate life.
“Over the past three years, the Alumni Ambassadors program has helped me grow, not only as a leader, but also as a person,” Evans said. “I’m grateful for the education and opportunities I’ve received at Utah Tech, and I truly believe this experience has enhanced my time here. It has given me lifelong friendships and memories that I will carry with me long after graduation.”
