A new era: Alumni Association transforms into a thriving community

Change is an inevitable part of life, and as the saying goes, the only constant is change. The USask College of Medicine Alumni Association has embraced this notion by announcing a significant transformation in the structure and approach of its operations. As we bid farewell to the Alumni Association of years past, we usher in a new era with the introduction of the College of Medicine Alumni and Community program. This landmark shift aims to redefine how the college connects with its alumni and marks a pivotal moment in the rejuvenation of engagement initiatives for our entire college community.

Launching in Fall 2023, the Alumni and Community program is designed to create an environment where every individual feels valued and supported, irrespective of their career stage or program. This inclusivity will foster a stronger sense of belonging, networking, and collaboration among the diverse group of individuals associated with the college than ever before.

Traditionally, alumni associations have been reserved for graduates and former students. However, the USask College of Medicine recognizes that its community extends beyond alumni and that every member, from students and residents to professors and practitioners, can play an integral role in shaping the institution's future. Welcoming these new demographics into the ranks of the Alumni and Community program strengthens the ties we all share and allows our alumni to be credited for the multifaceted roles they hold within their alma mater. When graduates return to the College of Medicine in their career they share their intuition, insight, and wisdom with those in their environment.

With sights set to the future, you can expect a steadfast increase in both Saskatchewan-local engagement but also into areas of high constituent density across North America, emphasizing that geographical location should not be a barrier to belonging to this community. With the need for global reach, digital-first communications will be the priority approach for consistent and expansive delivery.

Guidance and consultation from our community will be essential to ensuring relevant and timely adaptations and support now and into the future. Recruitment has now begun for our first Community Advisory Committee, signifying a move away from a formal and structured governance toward a dynamic and open platform, with committee membership open to anyone with a vested interested in shaping engagement initiatives. The Community Advisory Committee is entrusted to be a platform that relays information out to our medical community and peers, listens to the feedback that is returned, and acts in the best interest of the network.

The success of the new Alumni and Community program can only be achieved through the active participation and support of each individual in our network. As a crowdfunded program, the impact and efficacy of engagement initiatives is directed relative to the generosity of our community. Please consider making a charitable gift today to ensure not only the success of this program but its impact for our community.

The college's pulse is stronger than ever, beating with the energy and diversity of its extended community. As the new Alumni and Community Program takes shape, it heralds a bright new era for its members. Each member plays a vital role in shaping the future, making this change a celebration of the college's legacy and a step toward its continued success.

We are the pulse of the college.

Make a charitable contribution to the Alumni and Community Program: https://donate.usask.ca/online/medicine.php?fund_code=121769MEDALUMNI

For more information on joining the Community Advisory Committee, contact kelsey.kougiya@usask.ca.