By Mark Briscoe
On Saturday, February 27, the CSU Gulf Coast Alumni Chapter held its first Student and Alumni Networking Social at Cayman Grill in Orange Beach, Alabama. The ingredients for a successful event all came together as there was wonderful weather, great food and a robust population of students and alumni. It was very impressive to see the number of CSU students and alumni who traveled great distances to attend the event. From Anacoco, Louisiana to Huntsville, Alabama, our students and graduates showed up to connect with one another and express their CSU pride.
One proud graduate shared his thoughts on social media, “Had a fantastic time at the CSU Gulf Coast Chapter event last Saturday (27 Feb) evening. I am continually amazed at the quality and sincerity of the staff, faculty and students I have an opportunity to interact with. Had a tremendous time meeting new people and it was a very enjoyable experience. Thank you CSU for all that you do helping people achieve their goals achieving great things. CSU Rocks!!!”
A warm CSU welcome was provided by Billy Hayes, vice president of University Relations, and Chantell Cooley, senior executive vice president, as they invited everyone to share their CSU story and to take the opportunity to network with their fellow alumni. Amanda Manjone, director of Student and Alumni Engagement, also addressed the group and introduced the Vice President of the Gulf Coast chapter, Amanda Crinks. Amanda encouraged the membership to take an active part in the chapter and provide input to the chapter officers regarding upcoming events.
The goal for official chartering of the chapter is to have an active membership of at least 130 members. With a current membership of 115, we are close to achieving this number and are currently making plans to have the official chartering event in May. The Gulf Coast Alumni Chapter will be the second official chartered chapter at Columbia Southern University with Atlanta being the first chapter.
For more information or to join a chapter in your area, visit columbiasouthern.edu/community/alumni/alumni-chapters.
