Alumni Board of Directors

Alumni Board of Directors

The Alumni Board of Directors serves as ambassadors for Western Carolina University and provides critical leadership in advancing the University’s strategic initiatives. Board members actively engage in four key pillars: Lead, Give, Connect, Engage.

Jim Buchanan '83

Todd Blosser '94

Jennifer Brazelton ’12

Carrie Carpenter ’04

John Connet ’92

Mark Ethridge ’83

Keith Elliott, Sr. ’69

Dick Freeman ’83

Hank Henderson ’17

Marsha Hicks '99

Allison Hinson ’02

Heather Jones ’06

Kam McDonald ’01

Kaileigh Naylor ’20

Faviola Olvera ’15

Darius Ramsey ’16

Audrey Sanders ’88

Cindi Simmons ’82

Aaron Speyer ’21

Dawson Spencer ’21

Mitch Treadaway ’83

Tyler Tyndall ’15

John Truitt ’90

Kristin Wright ’08

Celina Woods ’85

 

Expectations for Board Members

Lead

  • Support engagement efforts in your local Subcommittee by attending gatherings and mentoring regional alumni leaders.

  • Promote strategic University and Alumni Association programs and initiatives.

  • Serve as a liaison between your Subcommittee and the University.

  • Encourage a culture of engagement and philanthropy, including promoting University programs and annual fund initiatives via social media.

  • Help develop the next generation of alumni leaders.

Give

  • Support WCU through an annual contribution.

  • Consider a multiyear pledge or planned gift to establish a lasting legacy.

  • Help secure resources to ensure the University’s continued success.

  • Serve as a host or sponsor for University gatherings to receive gift-in-kind recognition.

  • Purchase a WCU license plate for your vehicle(s), if available in your state.

Connect

  • Act as an active ambassador and advocate for the Alumni Association.

  • Build and strengthen relationships with alumni in your region.

  • Introduce the University to alumni who are not yet engaged or giving.

  • Nominate candidates for volunteer leadership positions within the Alumni Board.

Engage

  • Attend regularly scheduled Alumni Board meetings (typically three half-day meetings per year).

  • Mentor students and young alumni.

 


Any member of the WCU Alumni Association may nominate candidates, provided the nominee meets the association’s membership requirements. For details, please contact the Alumni Office.