A Minute with the Alumni Board of Directors

Why did you choose to get involved with the Alumni Board of Directors?

Williams: I chose to get involved with the board because of the opportunity to serve my university. I believe in this university and proudly advocate for the Saint Mary of tomorrow. This is an opportunity to make a difference and contribute to the sustainability of USM.

Henning: I chose to get involved with the Alumni Board of Directors for multiple reasons. My primary reasons were for continuing to stay connected with my alma mater. My second reason is that I would like to help build our alumni network to be a networking asset to our alumni.

What goals do you have for the board?

Williams: I currently have the following goals for the board:

• Add value to the experience of current and future Spires
• Challenge and support alumni to increase their involvement and giving
• Help alumni reconnect with the mission and values of USM
• Challenge board members to tap into their gifts and talents for the betterment
  of USM
• Grow and sustain the Alumni Association

Henning: I have two primary goals that I’d like to help the board accomplish. The primary goal I’d like to help accomplish is increasing alumni engagement with the university. We have many alumni who walk across the graduation stage and that’s the last real interaction with the university that they have. The second goal I have that I believe will help accomplish the first goal is to increase networking opportunities among alumni. I believe that the alumni of USM should be an asset that can be used by alumni to help advance their careers or open new doors for career opportunities.

What advice do you have for Saint Mary graduates?

Williams: My advice for graduates is to truly live the mission and values of our university. All Spires are equipped to stand boldly as we journey through our value-centered lives and careers.

Henning: Take risks and use both the education and life experiences you learned while at Saint Mary and figure out how to best leverage those to
your benefit.

Get Involved

Contact the University Advancement Office at alumni@stmary.edu or 913-758-6327.