Southwestern Magazine | Spring 2021

During fall 2020 and spring 2021, University Relations (UR) had to adapt their efforts, embracing the changes necessitated by COVID-19. UR successfully facilitated meaningful interactions with SU alumni, parents, and friends while respecting the limitations essential to keeping our community safe. One principal area UR has evolved in is the leveraging of technology to host virtual events, including meetings between scholarship donors and student scholarship recipients in lieu of the traditional Scholarship Banquet. In addition, they introduced a virtual book club dedicated to SU alumni. The Let’s Talk About It series within the book club addresses topics of social justice through panel discussions featuring alumni and faculty experts. It was also necessary for parent programming to move to a digital format and to take place on a more frequent basis to provide increased support to parents during the pandemic. Weekly email communications were sent with campus updates, and regular webinars took place to answer questions from parents. UR staff implemented several new programs for philanthropic supporters as well, including a series called Tower Talks, which provide President’s Council, Parent Leadership Council, and 1840 Society donors the opportunity to learn about topics relevant to SU. And at Pie Happy Hours, attendees enjoyed a slice of pecan pie while getting to know President Laura E. Skandera Trombley. Participation in these events was considerable because those with travel and time limitations were able to attend virtually. Despite the hardships, many positive changes occurred that have opened new possibilities for how the university can interact and connect with its community. VIRTUAL EVENTS, REAL ENGAGEMENT 1 4 | SOUTHWE S T E RN STORY BY BROOKE SHATTUCK '21