During its annual meeting on Sept. 12, the Hilton College Alumni Board introduced three new members: Patrick McCaslin (’10), John Price (’10) and Luis Rabo (’95, MHM/MBA ’02). Immediate past president Kaitlyn Venable-Valdez (’12) also passed the torch to incoming president Jessica Lewis (’07).

“One of the biggest goals we are trying to push is for alumni from every class to give back to the College, and this can mean more than just a financial contribution,” Lewis said. “It also means mentoring a student studying within your field, volunteering to join other alumni at a community service event, or just having fun and socializing at a tailgate or alumni mixer. We are hospitality, and we should feel proud of our education and the impact that we can continue to have once we graduate.”

From left, the 2019-2020 alumni board includes Karla Acosta (’16, MS ’17), graduate student representative; Rabo, Venable-Valdez, McCaslin, Lewis, Mike Przestrzelski (’78), member; Xiaodan Mao-Clark (’05, MS '13), vice president; Price; Michael Alcorn (’07), past president and Noel Stalnaker ('75), treasurer. Not present are Patty Sepulveda ('89), member; and Dr. Jaewook Kim (MS ’11), faculty advisor; and junior Sammie Theige, undergraduate student member.

United by their collective pride and support for the College, the Alumni Board is especially excited to partner more closely with the Dean’s Advisory Board to roll out initiatives to increase alumni engagement during this golden anniversary year.

“There's something special to be said about College pride and the connections you make with other alumni… it just feels like you're a part of something bigger,” Lewis said. “We have an incredible program, incredible faculty, staff and alumni, and we want to continue to be a part of the College’s tremendous history.”

No matter one’s graduation year, or how much time has passed since being back at the College, Lewis encourages all alumni to visit and get involved in any of the Hilton College Alumni Association’s activities. Follow the group on Facebook for event updates. Or, update your contact information to receive mailings of our annual Dean’s Report, alumni news and events throughout the year.

“Whether you're wanting to reminisce about college memories, network with other colleagues in your field, or make that one connection that will land you your dream job – this is your support system, come take your place within it,” Lewis said.

To learn more about the many opportunities to connect with Hilton College, email the Alumni Board or reach out to any of its members listed here.

(Story & Photo: Pearl Cajoles)

Posted on Oct. 17, 2019