[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/table-setting.jpg”]In the early evening as students mill about the campus, former students often return to join the hustle and bustle and to participate in a variety of activities offered by the McMaster Alumni Association (MAA). Representing over 120,00 McMaster graduates, the MAA seeks to keep alumni connected to their alma mater by offering a variety of events, services and benefits to the thousands of grads that live across the globe.

The hundreds of yearly events sponsored by the MAA are extremely diverse and aim to be both social and educational. Some of the sold out events this calendar year have included scotch tasting, an evening reception and discussion on the history of jazz, salsa dancing, an etiquette dinner, a family pancake breakfast at Westfield Heritage village, and a presentation on the genius of Mozart. While the majority of alumni activities are organized on campus and within the Golden Horseshoe, the MAA does host events for alumni in other provinces and countries, like China and the USA, throughout the year.

Since its inception in 1894 by the first sixteen graduates of McMaster, the McMaster Alumni Association continues to flourish today thanks to the many dedicated alumni volunteers who commit their time and energy. These volunteers are a crucial element to keeping the vibrancy and strength of the MAA and the McMaster community.

When asked why alumni want to volunteer with the MAA, association president Gary Collins says, “I think people want to give something back to the school they went to so they can help make it a better place for others.” As a former MSU President, Collins knows about 'giving back', as he has continued as an active advocate within the McMaster community since his student days. After graduation, Collins became involved at different levels within the MAA and has spent the last four years as an executive member on the Board of Directors.

When asked if the MAA has any new and exciting plans within its program, Collins says that he would like to see more programming for alumni working on campus. “We have a great wealth of knowledge and expertise in these grads who work on campus; they are the perfect ambassadors for the University and many feel really proud about graduating from and subsequently working at Mac. We'd like to help them get more involved.”

All alumni working on campus are encouraged to fill out a short survey on the types of events that would appeal to them and their families. All those who participate will have a chance to win a $100 gift certificate for Titles Bookstore.