The Alumni and Community Engagement Board (ACEB) is an essential group of alumni and community leaders who volunteer their time, expertise, and resources to support the mission of the School of Social Work (SSW). This board is designed to bring together a select group of 12-15 dedicated individuals who represent diverse experiences, professional backgrounds, and geographic locations. Together, they provide invaluable guidance that shapes the future of social work engagement within our school and the communities it serves. 

Board Expectations

Term length: 3 years (an option for a second term)

Active Participation: Attend 7-8 Board Meetings throughout the year (10 Total). 

Commitment to Service: Participate in Board initiatives (Mentorship programs, Volunteerism, Events, etc)

Representation: Act as an Ambassador of the University of Illinois School of Social Work

Alumni & Community Engagement Board Structure

The ACEB is structured around four key modes of engagement—Communication, Volunteerism, Experiential, and Philanthropy. Each mode is supported by a dedicated subgroup, ensuring a focused and strategic approach to each mode of engagement. Each subgroup will have a subgroup chair which will lead their respective team, report progress at board meetings, and work collaboratively to ensure alignment with the school’s strategic goals. 

1. Communication

This subgroup is dedicated to strengthening outreach and fostering meaningful connections among alumni, students, and the community.

• Contribute to SSW newsletters, create social media updates, and alumni spotlights.
• Maintain a dynamic online presence to share stories (via SSW website – “Share Your Story” and “Class Notes”), school updates, and upcoming initiatives (Holidays, Events).
• Act as SSW brand ambassadors, ensuring that alumni and the public stay informed and engaged. 

2. Volunteerism

This subgroup creates a space to support students and social work initiatives through service and mentorship opportunities.

• Organize mentorship programs pairing alumni with current students and with local community organizations. 
• Plan and coordinate small service projects benefiting the local community (CLL partnership).
• Facilitate networking and career panels to support student and early-career social workers (Host panels within the local community and SSW that can include alumni, students, and community leaders). 

3. Experiential

This subgroup enhances the alumni and student experience through in-person and virtual events (Hands-On Experiences).

• Plan networking gatherings, speaker series, and workshops.
• Help in organizing campus visits and interactive learning experiences (Local History Tours, workshops, Immersive simulation experience).
• Develop opportunities for students to engage with professionals in the field through shadowing and internship programs (Alumni career presentations in classrooms).

4. Philanthropic

This subgroup creates a space to support and expand the school’s impact.

• Advocate for and lead fundraising efforts, including annual giving campaigns (Orange & Blue Week / Homecoming).
• Encourage alumni and community members to contribute through participating in giving in giving initiatives (giving Tuesday, Alumni Matching Challenge, Employer Matching?)
• Attend Celebration of Impact, Homecoming, and helping steward alumni who have interacted, participated in events, volunteered, and donated to SSW Initiatives.