USF Alumni Volunteers Make the Difference

The Alumni Association at University of San Francisco boasts a strong alumni volunteer network, full of hardworking Dons who roll up their sleeves to make a difference for their alma mater and their communities.

Leading the way is USF’s Alumni Board, a group of dedicated volunteers whose purpose is to connect alumni with the university, its mission, and current students. The board plays an important role in communicating feedback from the alumni community to USF’s administration.

Did you know that there are many ways for alumni to volunteer at USF? Opportunities and groups include the:

• Alumni Board of Directors
• Affinity and identity groups
• Women in Leadership and Philanthropy Board
• Reunion committees
• Regional volunteerism
• Alumni Mentor Program

...and more.

USF events attract hundreds of volunteers each year, with roles that suit any interest.

Affinity group boards are an attractive option for those interested in getting involved. Alumni can give their time and talent back to USF by self-selecting to volunteer in any of these four boards:

• Asia Pacific Alumni Network
• Black Alumni Society
• Latinx Alumni Society
• Pride Alumni Group

Matty Benson MA ’21, who serves on USF’s Pride Alumni Board, shares a deep appreciation for involvement with fellow members.

“It's a way to connect with fellow queer alumni,” said Benson. “It's also a way to stay connected to the USF community that I had such a great time being a part of as a student. I especially love participating in the SF Pride Parade and the annual Christmas parties.”

In total, there are 67 affinity group board members who dedicate their time to connecting USF alumni to students through events, mentorship, and philanthropic efforts. Cumulatively, they have volunteered for approximately 450 hours in the 2023-24 academic year, including planning and hosting nearly 20 events.

Michael Robison, an assistant director of alumni engagement at USF, plays a vital role in keeping alumni connected with the USF community. By working with the alumni affinity and identity groups, Robison emphasizes the importance of alumni volunteering and fostering connections with current students.

“I can see how meaningful it is for our alumni and current students to forge a connection through volunteering at events like the Cultural Center’s end-of-year ceremonies and the San Francisco and Los Angeles pride parades,” said Robison.

“I had the opportunity to help organize USF's small (but mighty!) Los Angeles Pride Parade contingent, and as we marched through Downtown L.A., we heard a lot of people in the crowd say things like ‘Oh my God, USF's here!’ or ‘I went there!’ and ‘Go Dons!’ It was really special, and it matters a lot when we show up for our diverse student body and alumni communities.”

Volunteers at USF revitalize the community and are often reminded of what they love most about their time on the Hilltop: a culture of service and connection. Thank you to all of the USF volunteers who make a difference every day for students and the alumni community.  

 Want to get involved? Join the growing list of volunteers at the University of San Francisco.