Alumni Association
About Simpson University's Alumni Association
Simpson’s Alumni Association was instituted in 1963 with the adoption
of our Constitution and Bylaws. Since then, these core documents have
been revised and new documents adopted, with the most recent revision
adopted in April 2007. Over the years, the association has struggled
through long stretches of inactivity, but the current Executive Board
is making a strong effort to change that pattern. In September 2000, a
newly affirmed board began meeting under the capable leadership of
President Doug Patterson. The board not only revised the Constitution
and Bylaws, but also created a S.W.O.T. analysis to provide direction
and focus.
Amazingly, many alums don’t realize they ARE alumni
of the university. Not only are students who have graduated from
Simpson considered alumni, but also any traditional undergraduates who,
upon withdrawal, have completed 24 credits or more of study. This
means many students in their second year at Simpson already qualify as
alumni. In the case of ASPIRE or graduate students, only those
receiving a degree are considered alumni. All alums of Simpson are
automatically members of the Alumni Association.
The Alumni Association’s principal objectives are to:
- provide a means of fellowship, support and encouragement for alumni;
- reach out to and encourage prospective students;
- create good will among the general public toward Simpson; and
- assist with the raising of funds for the future of Simpson.
Some of the methods the current board is using to reach these objectives include:
- developing regional and affinity chapters;
- supporting events where alumni and students can connect;
- honoring alums who have made a significant contribution either to the
university or to the world in a particular field or profession;
- funding annual student scholarship awards; and
- providing alumni various opportunities to participate with their time and talents.
Annually,
the Alumni Association awards $1000 to a student in his or her junior
year who has engaged in exceptional community service far beyond the
requirements of all traditional undergraduates. The association is
working toward endowing this award to ensure its longevity. In order
to accomplish this task, we will raise $20,000 in addition to the
annual award through alumni contributions and fundraising efforts.
Additionally, the association is developing an award for deserving
ASPIRE students, thereby providing ASPIRE alumni an opportunity to
support a student who otherwise wouldn’t be able to complete their
degree.
Alumni
who haven’t already registered on this online community can click on
'First
Time Login' at the top left of the screen to become a registered user.
Users can list as little or as much information as they are comfortable
in providing. The process is free and painless and allows members to
reconnect with old college friends, engage in professional development
and enjoy resources designed especially for Simpson alumni. The Alumni
Association Executive Board welcomes member input and would love to
hear from you!