Student ambassadors share their Richmond pride

Student Ambassadors Nolan Hughes, Tajh Ferguson and Ryan Locke participated in the dedication of the Weinstein Center for Recreation and Wellness.

Thirty Richmond students are serving in a new program that bridges the gap between being a student and an alumnus.

The Student Ambassadors program “is focused on students being a part of the celebrations and traditions that involve alumni, parents, friends and donors of the University,” explained Steve Bisese, vice president for student development. “Those constituencies enjoy hearing about student life. The students bring a very enjoyable dimension to these programs.”

The 30 charter members were selected from a pool of students nominated by faculty and staff. Students also could express interest in the program themselves. “Each student submitted an application and explained why they were interested and how he or she could contribute to the program,” said Julie Bondy, assistant director of alumni programs, who helped coordinate the ambassadors’ selection, training and initial assignments.

Plans call for ambassadors to volunteer at major campus events, such as Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, “events that are held on campus where hundreds of alumni and guests return to reconnect with the University,” said Bondy. Ambassadors also will serve as resources to the vice presidents of student development and advancement by being available for panels needing student input, and they will provide advice and help in planning events or developing new initiatives.

The selected students attended a training session that covered guidelines and expectations of involvement, an overview of the organization of the University, an analysis of the alumni population, important issues of interest to alumni plus conversation and  etiquette tips.

“These are outstanding students who have contributed to a wide range of campus activities. They are proud of the University and want to share this pride with others,” said Bisese.

Bondy said the idea for the group originated from a need for greater collaboration between advancement and student development by exposing a group of students to on-campus experiences that would educate them on the broader aspects of the University and enable the transition from the student to the alumni experience.

“I’m so excited to see how this group is taking shape during this charter year of the program. I’m sure it will grow to become a very highly regarded student group on campus,” said Bondy.