Global Alumni Networks - new publication alert

What can we learn about these networks? 

Dear Friends: 

In 2019, I began my fascination with Global Alumni Networks, especially those that are funded by national or regional governments. My research in this field began, exploring networks across 10 countries! 

This is a special kind of diaspora community, which I explored before for Alumni Friday. In my new publication in Policy & Practice: A Development Education Review, I delve into these alumni networks looking specifically at my research in Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Sweden and the United Kingdom from 2019 and a follow-up in 2024.  

The result? This publication: Global Alumni Networks and Social Class: Epistemic Communities and the ‘Thought Collective’ Towards Voluntary Impact on Local Civil Society 

Don't be put off by the title, this is dive into how global alumni networks create a certain type of community, a 'thinking community' that can have an impact of local community through alumni volunteer leadership.  

Isn't this what we want? Our alumni (or for ourselves!) having a positive impact on our local community as a way for us to tackle some of the world's biggest challenges? A lofty claim? Perhaps! Read and reply with your comments! 

Your challenge this week: 

For alumni-facing professionals: How do you create your alumni networks as 'thinking communities' where they are having a sustained impact on students, the institution or in their community?  

For alumni and students: Does your university offer experiences (seminars, events, symposiums, lifelong learning courses) that allow you to create your own 'thinking community' or, connect with fellow alumni with shared interests? Do a quick Alumni Friday search and sign-up! 

Did you know May 1st is the first day of summer in Ireland? The weather is a good match. With this season upon us, while Alumni Fridays will continue every week, this Alumni Friday newsletter will be running every 2 weeks for the summer period. Check out the Alumni Friday Archive if you need a weekly fix- keep it up! 

With alumni kindness, 

Maria 

Photo: Recently I attended the first-ever alumni reunion for the University of Victoria in Halifax, Canada - 4 time zones from the UVic campus! The start of an alumni chapter has begun - an opportunity for a vibrant alumni thinking community!