Alumni Campus Employees Kick Off New Year with Welcome Back Luncheon

Kicking off 2017 with a get-together, more than 70 Alumni Campus Employees gathered on January 10 to enjoy good food and conversation at the Fourth Annual Welcome Back Luncheon. Organized by the Office of Alumni Relations as a way to thank alumni employees for their dedication and service, and to let them know about volunteer and philanthropic opportunities, the luncheon is a great way to catch up with colleagues and meet fellow alumni employees.

Although many may not know it, more than 400 alumni currently work at Montclair State as faculty or staff. Alumni Campus Employees (ACE) are special members of the campus community, having spent time here as students before becoming staff and faculty. They share a unique perspective on and dedication to the University. Alumni campus employees use their experiences to create strong connections to current students, understanding the importance of building a personal connection as a way to help them become active alumni.

Holly Gera ’79, Director of Athletics, spoke to the group and reflected on her years as a member of the campus community. “We still have many first generation students here,” says Gera. “Montclair State University is still changing lives and providing opportunities.” As far as giving to the University, Gera adds, “you can designate your contributions to a particular program or department that might be near and dear to you, or give to the general scholarship fund.”

Assistant Vice President for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement Jeanne Marano also spoke to the group thanking everyone for their service to the University and sharing information about Alumni Relations events and programs. She encouraged everyone to continue to volunteer for events such as Homecoming and Red Hawk Day.