The Gold Standard Podcast

The Impact of Alumni Involvement: Insights from Kelly ObermayerDiscover the significance of alumni involvement in university communities through Kelly Obermeyer's journey. Learn how connections can shape futures and foster growth.In this first episode of The Gold Standard Podcast, we explore the importance of alumni engagement through a conversation with Kelly Obermeyer, a proud SUNY Canton alumna and the president of the SUNY Canton Alumni Association. Kelly shares her personal journey, the impact of alumni contributions, and offers valuable insights for recent graduates looking to connect with their alma mater.About Kelly Obermayer:Kelly graduated from SUNY Canton in 1979 and has since dedicated her time to enhancing alumni relations. As the president of the Alumni Association, she plays a vital role in fostering connections between the university and its graduates. Her commitment to giving back is rooted in her own experiences and the lasting impact SUNY Canton had on her life.Why Alumni Engagement Matters:Kelly emphasizes the importance of alumni giving back to their universities, whether through time, treasure, or talent. Engaging with current students and fellow alumni fosters a community that supports growth and development."Alumni can offer mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support that can change lives," she explains. Leadership Roles and Their Impact:As the president of the Alumni Association, Kelly has a unique perspective on the role of leadership in fostering alumni engagement. She discusses how leaders can inspire others to get involved and the positive outcomes that stem from a strong alumni community."Leadership is about being a role model and showing others the value of staying connected," Kelly says. A Message to Recent Graduates:For graduates of the last decade, Kelly has a special message: stay connected. Many recent alumni feel disconnected from their alma mater, but Kelly believes that maintaining those connections is crucial for personal and professional growth."Even if you think your time or resources are limited, every little bit helps," she advises. "Reconnecting with classmates and engaging with the alumni community can lead to unexpected opportunities."The Future of Alumni Communities:Looking ahead, Kelly is optimistic about the future of alumni relations at SUNY Canton. She is excited about the growth of events and initiatives designed to strengthen alumni connections and support students."The alumni community is growing, and it’s important that we all contribute to that growth," she says. Key Takeaways:Engagement Matters: Alumni involvement can significantly impact current students and the university as a whole.Leadership Inspires: Alumni leaders play a vital role in encouraging others to give back.Stay Connected: Recent graduates should prioritize reconnecting with their alma mater for personal and professional development.Kelly Obermayer’s insights highlight the lasting impact of alumni involvement on university communities. As graduates, it’s essential to stay connected and give back in meaningful ways. By doing so, not only do we enhance our own lives, but we also help shape the futures of those who follow in our footsteps.For more insights from Kelly and to learn about upcoming alumni events, visit: https://sunyalumni.canton.edu/