International Alumni Programs: University of Arkansas

The vision of holding international alumni reunions on the campus of the University of Arkansas first began in 1994 and was finally a reality in 1997. Since then, a second event was held in 2002.

Planning for these events began with the formation of a reunion committee. The Office of International Students and Scholars teamed up with the Student Affairs Development Officer and the staff of the Alumni Association to organize the committee. Representatives from each college were invited to join as were two international alumni who were still living in the Fayetteville area. The committee met monthly up to a year before the event and twice monthly after that.

Setting the Date

Choosing the best time of year to host international visitors is dependent on a number of things. When is the weather most conducive? What kinds of activities are available for attendees in addition to the planned events? Arkansas chose to host the group in the Fall of 1997 and in the Spring of 2002. The Autumn event was held in conjunction with Homecoming and the Spring event focused on academic achievements of the University. The agenda for each event was organized to include classroom visits, opportunities for testimonials from alumni on the impact the University had on their lives, tours of the campus and the community, time with current international students and future study abroad students, and a formal banquet as the finale.

What seems the most important? All events were popular but leaving them ample free time to take care of personal visits and shopping were essential.

Developing the Budget

The fee charged attendees covered actual food costs, transportation, and memory book expenses. Indirect costs, plus printing, mailing and other related expenses were covered through fund raising efforts. Detailed budget information is available.

Planning the Event

The Arkansas event is truly a community event so utilizing connections throughout the community from the University administration to the Mayor’s Office is essential. What would seem to be a fairly routine activity becomes an international happening in Fayetteville. Ask academic departments to share mailing lists, update the files in the Alumni Office and ask host families to invite their former students back to campus.

A Web site was established as the central communication instrument. Registration forms were available online as well as pictures of past events.

Additional information about critical issues in hosting international alumni reunions can be obtained from the Office of International Students and Scholars.