Kellie Knight is the assistant vice chancellor for foundation relations at the University of Arkansas and she is a member of the Arkansas Alumni Association. Collin Brunner, assistant director for membership experience, invited Knight to share her thoughts on why membership matters. The following is an edited version of their Q&A.
What does membership in the Arkansas Alumni Association mean to you?
It means connection and education. The Arkansas Alumni Association provides many ways to connect with other alumni and friends as well as leaders at the university through engagement events and activities. And, membership is a great way to learn more about the institution because it provides information in various platforms of current campus highlights to historical facts.
Kellie Knight poses with her oldest granddaughter Penelope Phair at a Razorback game.
Why is membership important?
As a staff member and former parent (of two U of A graduates) it is important to me to stay involved in multiple ways at the U of A and the association membership is great for doing just that. I have watched my daughters transition from students to alumni and I have instilled in them the importance of staying connected to the institution through membership and philanthropy. It is also a special privilege that others who value the U of A as non-alumni may be involved in the same way.
Which membership benefits do you value most?
It has meant a lot to my family to be a part of the athletic pre-game events and now it is even more fun to bring our granddaughters and watch their excitement when the band, spirit squads and mascots visit to energize the crowd. The Alumni Association staff works hard to provide these special moments and I don’t take that for granted.
What advice would you give to those considering a membership with the Arkansas Alumni Association?
It is a small and lasting investment, so alumni and friends of the University of Arkansas, don’t wait any longer and join today!
Visit https://join.arkansasalumni.org to learn more about joining the association.
