Southwestern alumni in London, Oct. 13, 2007, counterclockwise from the front left: Nick de la Rosa '90, Linda Bednar Paterson '95, Brittany Mason '05, Samia Khoury '54, Rosalinda Rodriguez Grist '98, Maralee Buttery Vezie '80, Pia Karlsson '08, Joe Seeber '63 and Appletree Rodden '64.

Over 600 Southwestern University alumni all over the United States have been gathering to connect with others who share the lifelong Southwestern Experience. Now alumni living internationally have the same opportunity through the International Alumni Connection Group!

International alumni connecting through this group gather not only to socialize. In the spirit of Southwestern's Core Values and the Mission and Vision of The Association of Southwestern University Alumni, future activities may include service projects, connecting with students studying abroad to help them acclimate to a new culture, and organizing educational events in collaboration with Southwestern students and faculty to promote lifelong learning. Given The Association's Mission to be a community that fosters a lifelong Southwestern Experience, the possibilities are plentiful.

International alumni also can connect virtually through an online forum that allows members to post messages and files. Thus, no matter where they are, alumni around the world can share their lifelong Southwestern Experience.

Events

The SU International Alumni Connection Group is planning several activities that are open to all interested alumni:

1) A group of alumni in Europe, particularly in London, is planning to have a “Welcome to London” social and networking event for SU students arriving in London to study this Fall. The event is planned for Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008. Please join us!

2) A potential activity is in the works to celebrate Easter in the Holy Land in 2009 or 2010. Depending on interest, this could be the Eastern or Western Holiday. The gathering can also include a community service project during this visit to Israel.

3) International alumni are collaborating with the Office of Intercultural Learning to serve as in-country contacts for students studying abroad in the countries where alumni now live.

Photo Gallery

October 13, 2007 - International Alumni Dinner in London