University of Georgia Alumni Networks

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The University of Georgia Alumni Association strives to connect students with alumni, and serve all of its alumni in the best ways possible. We are proud to have programming for some of the university’s most dynamic populations, including students and four affinity groups: Black Alumni, Latino Alumni, Women of UGA and Young Alumni.

If you are passionate about building a welcoming UGA community for all Bulldogs, and enjoy helping fellow alumni connect to their alma mater, consider nominating yourself or a fellow UGA alumni for a volunteer position on an affinity group leadership council via the form below.

Submit a Nomination

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of affinity groups?

Affinity groups were created to nurture a welcoming community for all Bulldog alumni. Not all alumni experience the university in the same way, and affinity groups allow the Alumni Association to bridge the gap between the student experience and the alumni experience for certain populations. The affinity groups will be led by 15-person leadership councils who will steer the mission and programming for each group.

Is there any historical precedent for these groups?

Black Alumni
In 2004, the UGA Alumni Association incepted Multicultural Programs. This programming unit was designed to provide diverse alumni with opportunities to be involved, and stay connected with, the UGA Alumni Association and university, while networking and socializing with fellow UGA alumni and friends. Multicultural Programs’ primary focus is on outreach to underrepresented alumni groups, including: African American, Latino, Asian, Native American and multi-racial alumni through specially designed, culturally sensitive events. This steering committee led programming unit, along with high alumni engagement and advocacy, led to the establishment of the UGA Black Alumni Affinity Group and Black Alumni Leadership Council in October 2015.

Women of UGA
Women of UGA has maintained three tenets of community empowerment since it was established as Explore Programming for Women in early 2000. Through the years, a steering committee of volunteers has helped guide the direction of the group. In 2014, Women of UGA established the Women of UGA Scholarship Fund, a needs-based scholarship that will be afforded to students through the Office of Student Financial Aid.

Young Alumni
The Young Alumni group has been present intermittently throughout the decades. With a renewed strategic plan, the UGA Alumni Association is ready to channel the energy and focus of passionate young graduates to help bring quality programs. This group will connect and engage alumni ages 29 and under through mentoring students, community outreach, and supporting on-campus initiatives.

Latino Alumni

Latino Alumni is a growing community of Latino, Hispanic, and Spanish ancestry persons affiliated with the University of Georgia. The Latino Alumni Affinity Group was officially formed in 2021, and is interested in professional development, community service, and personal empowerment opportunities. Following their founding, the council established the Latino Alumni Scholarship fund in support of undergraduate students at UGA.

Who can join an affinity group?

All UGA alumni automatically become members of the Alumni Association upon graduation. Any UGA graduate whose interests are aligned with those of the UGA Alumni Association and its affinity groups may join and attend programs. Alumni can nominate themselves or a fellow alum to be considered for affinity group leadership councils by completing the volunteer nomination form.

Does this mean that there is more than one UGA Alumni Association?

No. Affinity groups are not separate alumni associations. Think of them like committees in Congress—they are working toward the same goals to connect, hire and give, but with a more specific population.

How can I get involved with the UGA Alumni Association?

Visit alumni.uga.edu/chapters to locate your local chapter and get connected with Bulldogs around the world. There are leadership positions within the chapters structure and we are always in need of volunteers. You can also:

Attend and/or nominate your UGA Alumni peers for Bulldog 100, 40 Under 40 and Alumni Awards.
Attend an event.
Host a webinar for alumni.
Become a Digital Dawg

Specifically, how can I get involved with an affinity group?

You can support these affinity groups by attending events and joining established committees on the leadership councils. Typically, applications are open during winter of each year. Each affinity group will have its own 15-member council that will define goals, create programming initiatives and support the scholarship funds held by these groups. As a member of one of these councils, you will have the opportunity to connect and network with influential alumni, develop your professional and personal leadership skills and participate in meaningful programming that enhances the experiences of UGA alumni and students.

What are the criteria for joining the leadership council for one of these groups?

All leadership council members must be UGA alumni who uphold the Pillars of the Arch– wisdom, justice and moderation. Council members must also attend at least two of the three quarterly council meetings, participate in the creation of affinity group programming, attend the majority of council events and donate at least $300 per year to the UGA Foundation or other academic pursuits at UGA.

What is the selection process for the councils?

Each leadership council application will be reviewed by the affinity group’s Board Advisory Committee. This committee is comprised of members of the UGA Alumni Association Board of Directors and is committed to guiding, advising and mentoring each leadership council.

What if I want to create another affinity group?

The four existing affinity groups came about through demand from highly engaged alumni who volunteer with these groups. If you are interested in adding to the Bulldog nation through the formation of a new affinity group, contact us. And, don’t forget that regional chapters and alumni events are wonderful ways to stay connected with the UGA Alumni Association.

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