7th Annual Alumni Mixer at SPC Clearwater Campus Draws Record Attendance

4/16/2024

Nearly 130 alumni and guests gathered at the St. Petersburg College (SPC) Clearwater Campus on Friday, April 12, 2024, for the 7th Annual Alumni Mixer, hosted by the SPC Alumni Network. The event provided a vibrant platform for alumni to reconnect, network, and celebrate their shared experiences at SPC and St. Petersburg Junior College (SPJC).

The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from Theresa McFarland, the Executive Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving program, who highlighted the impactful initiatives undertaken by the SPC Alumni Network. One of the key announcements of the evening was the unveiling of the "Alumni Life" portal. The platform serves as a pivotal tool in fostering ongoing engagement and connectivity among alumni. By offering a user-friendly interface, the portal facilitates seamless interaction for both active and prospective alumni, encouraging sustained participation in the SPC community.

Through its diverse array of features, the portal serves as a comprehensive hub of information and resources, providing current news about the college to keep alumni abreast of developments and achievements. Moreover, the portal grants access to exclusive content, such as the president's podcast, fostering a sense of transparency and connection between alumni and college leadership.

Additionally, the portal serves as a gateway to philanthropic opportunities, enabling alumni to support initiatives like the Titan Fund and the MIRA program, showcasing the enduring impact of alumni contributions on the college and its students. In essence, the "Alumni Life" portal plays a vital role in strengthening alumni ties, promoting lifelong engagement, and advancing the mission of SPC as a community-focused institution.

McFarland introduced another initiative previously launched, the "100 Strong: Women Empowering Women" program led by Deborah Swink, Executive Director of Development. This initiative stands as a beacon of empowerment and support for SPC students through harnessing the collective strength and generosity of philanthropically minded women. This program is of paramount importance as it not only provides vital financial assistance to students in need but also fosters a sense of community and solidarity among its members. By coming together to make a collective impact, these women will be actively shaping the future of SPC and uplifting the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

The highlight of the evening was a captivating performance of "The Yellow Boat" by David Saar, presented by the SPC Theater Department under the direction of Scott Cooper. The emotional and thought-provoking play added a meaningful touch to the evening, resonating with alumni and guests alike.

The 7th Annual Alumni Mixer served as an important touchpoint for gathering and engaging SPC and SPJC alumni. It provided a valuable opportunity for alumni to network, share insights, and forge new connections. Additionally, the event showcased the college's commitment to fostering lifelong relationships with its alumni community and creating meaningful avenues for continued involvement and support.

Moreover, McFarland's announcement regarding the upcoming Alumni “Can We Talk” Focus Group in May signals the SPC Alumni Network's commitment to actively listening to alumni voices, understanding their needs, and fostering a culture of philanthropy in support of their alma mater.

As SPC continues to evolve and grow, events like these play a crucial role in strengthening the bond between the college and its alumni, ensuring a bright and connected future for generations of Titans to come.