Alumni invited to Adelaide

This September, graduates, staff and students will have an opportunity to meet their fellow alumni from around the globe and mix business and pleasure.

Alumni from around Australia and overseas are encouraged to attend the University of Adelaide's first Alumni Forum on September 4 and 5.

Hosted by the Development and Alumni office, the forum will feature a mix of sessions, speaker panels and social events - all aimed at enhancing the relationship between the University, its graduates, staff and students.

The forum is for any student, staff (former or current) or graduate who has an interest in alumni relations and is keen to help advance the University's Alumni Relations Strategic Plan 2007-2011.

In line with the Strategic Plan, alumni forums will be held every two years, alternating with the existing biennial Australian Universities International Alumni Convention.

The purpose of the alumni forums is to:

• Provide information on alumni trends and innovative programming;
  
• Showcase best practice in alumni programming;
  
• Provide opportunities for alumni to give feedback to the University of Adelaide on its Alumni Relations Strategic Plan;
  
• Provide opportunities for interaction between graduates, University staff and students;
  
• Highlight current achievements and future developments at the University of Adelaide;
  
• Increase the profile of the University through a prominent alumni speaker series.

Held over two mornings, the forum will provide an opportunity for alumni to hear the Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Adelaide, Professor James McWha, outline his views on the role of alumni; to share ideas and current best practice; to hear speakers discuss such issues as engaging Gen Y; receive feedback on organising memorable events; and learn how to make the most of the University's online community, Adelaide onLION.

Many of the sessions will involve a panel of speakers and each session will provide an opportunity for alumni to ask questions and share their own experiences.

A social program, including University tours and a winery tour, is also on the agenda.

Distinguished alumnus Dr Cheong Choong Kong, Chairman of the OCBC (Singapore), former CEO of Singapore Airlines and part-time actor, will speak at the Alumni Forum gala dinner on Friday 4 September as part of this year's prominent alumni speaker series.

An Alumni Leaders Meeting will also be held on Thursday 3 September to seek feedback on the Alumni Relations Strategic Plan and to invite comments and suggestions on the future direction of the University's alumni program. ■

Further information, including the full program, can be downloaded at www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au or contact Development and Alumni at +61 8 8303 5800.

STORY KIM HARVEY