Dear Alumni and Friends of NYIT,

When I first set foot on the Old Westbury campus as a graduate student in 1996, I knew I had made a lifelong connection. Like many of you, I was working full time while earning my degree, and so I particularly appreciated the support and flexibility I received from my professors. Once I earned my Master of Science in Human Resources and Labor Relations, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to serve as associate director of the NYIT Career Network Center (now the Office of Career Services) until 2006.

When I was invited to return as director of alumni relations, I couldn’t help but be excited about picking up where I left off, building connections—building community—at NYIT.  I have so many fond memories as an NYIT student, and I look forward to learning about your experiences as well as your accomplishments since earning your degree. As much as I cherish our shared history, I am reminded that alumni relations is as much about looking to the future as it is about remembering the past. As I develop a multi-year plan for alumni relations, I will focus on two overarching themes: connectivity and engagement.

With more than 92,000 alumni worldwide, building connections among alumni will be a challenge. Fortunately, today’s world offers more technology and media accessibility than ever, and, taking a cue from President Guiliano and his vision as expressed in NYIT’s 2030 strategic plan, I will take full advantage of 21st-century communication tools to ensure a vibrant community of NYIT graduates. I want you to know what is new and exciting at NYIT, and I want to know what is new and exciting in your careers. Your success inspires students, encourages faculty and staff, builds school pride, and enhances the value of your NYIT degree.  

There is no substitute for an alumni presence at NYIT. I am pleased to note that the volunteer-led Alumni Federation is providing global vision and leadership for our future programming. We are eager to develop opportunities for all alumni who want to be more engaged. This may include serving as a volunteer mentor, as an internship provider or recruiter, or perhaps as a guest lecturer. Your participation will help us to build a network of relationships that will lead to increased opportunities for all. Every year, we graduate a new generation of innovators; as NYIT alumni, you have access to this talented pool of potential employees and business partners.

I hope you are already considering how you can be more engaged and benefit from this powerful network of professionals.  

Sincerely,

Jennifer Kelly (M.S. ’99)
Director of Alumni Relations

More Alumni Notes

Vol. 10 No. 2 Table of Contents