Membership has its privileges
U of R alumni community spans the globe
Celebrating, engaging and connecting the alumni of the University of Regina is the work of two connected, but separate, entities.
The U of R Alumni Association is the not-for-profit organization of the alumni. It strives to promote the accomplishments and support the future development of the University of Regina, its students and alumni.
The association works closely with the Alumni and Community Engagement office, which is a part of the university’s External Relations Department.
It offers perks and benefits to graduates of degree, diploma or certificate programs. It also offers volunteer opportunities, as well as networking and social events.
“Benefits and services offered exclusively to U of R alumni include group rates on financial services that the University has negotiated with providers of home and auto insurance, life insurance, and a major credit card,” said Diane Mullin, Alumni Engagement Officer. “When alumni participate, a portion of the proceeds are returned by these companies to the University and support student scholarships and activities on campus.”
Mullan said this year the office has introduced a new benefit in the form of a membership program called Alumni Perks. Perks is a mobile discount pass on your cellphone that entitles alumni to premiums, discounts and special offers with business partners in health and fitness, fashion, dining and entertainment. Alumni Perks is offered free of charge to all alumni, who can register on-line or through their smart phones.
“Our office engages alumni near and far through events, social media and lifelong learning opportunities. Of course, Regina is the area with our greatest number of alumni, but then across the country there are branches in Victoria, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Ottawa.”
University president Dr. Vianne Timmons often makes appearances at alumni events held at those far-flung chapters, helping to nurture the ever-growing community outside Regina.
“While the U of R is still a relatively young university, we now have 70,000 alumni who are located in cities and countries around the world,” said Mullan.