International Alumni Programs: Texas Tech University
At Texas Tech University, the alumni abroad unit is within the Office of International Affairs. The University alumni database is maintained in the Office of Institutional Advancement. The Director of International Alumni Relations (DIAR) maintains a current alumni abroad database in the International Office, but forwards the current addresses of international alumni to the Office of Institutional Advancement. Individuals reported in this way include former students, faculty, visiting scholars, parents of students, and expatriate Texas Tech alumni living overseas.
Efforts to build a cohort of international alumni at Texas Tech began in January of 2000. Records of former international students and scholars were researched for home addresses and information questionnaires were sent out. The responses were entered into an international alumni database, from which a variety of search options were created. By accessing this database, participants can not only find out what is going on at Texas Tech, but can also locate and communicate with former friends and colleagues. The alumni abroad Web site – http://alumniabroad.ttu.edu - offers links to all the country chapters, the regional contact person, graduate and undergraduate admissions applications, the Intensive English Program and the on-campus international clubs.
The success of an alumni abroad program is also dependent on successful on-campus networking. Information about joining the Texas Tech Alumni Association is presented to new international students at their new student orientation program. From that point on, a programming link is maintained between the international community and the Alumni Association.
Maintaining life-long relationships with alumni abroad requires the implementation and support of a variety of program elements. Establishing alumni chapters, hosting reunions, and arranging meetings between alumni and visiting Texas Tech faculty or students are some examples. Electronic communications and newsletters are also important. Periodic major events on the home campus that focus on international alumni demonstrate the value the institution places on its overseas graduates. Homecoming 2005 at Texas Tech is designed to feature international alums, with a range of special activities for them.
Visit the Texas Tech International Alumni Program Web site for additional information.
