Board of Directors

THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME

Dear Auburn Family,
Words cannot express how excited I am to serve as president of the Auburn Alumni Association Board of Directors. I am thankful for the opportunity, and look forward to meeting and talking to alumni and friends as we continue to spread the Auburn spirit. There are few things I’d rather do than talk to Auburn people about Auburn! We are proud our university is strong, vibrant and admired. We are equally gratified our alumni network continues to be enthusiastically invested in working together to reach new heights of excellence at all levels.

For as long as I can remember, Auburn has been a positive influence in my life. I grew up loving Auburn and living near enough for frequent visits to the Plains. From Eufaula, Ala.—around 70 miles southeast of Auburn—we visited on Saturdays in the fall and savored every moment of those crisp autumn afternoons. As a college student, Auburn nurtured me and provided a distinctive environment to learn, grow and mature.

From graduation through today, Auburn continues to connect me to opportunities and people who are encouraging and inspiring. One of my favorite passages in the Auburn Creed highlights the importance of the human touch. For us, our unique connection, the Auburn Family, is personal and never ending.

During my tenure on the alumni association board, I have had the opportunity to observe from close range the leadership of outstanding Auburn men and women dedicated to Auburn’s success. Past presidents Jack Fite, Beau Byrd, Van Henley and Regenia Sanders each welcomed me as a new director and provided avenues for service over the past six years that continue to be meaningful and enriching. The wide-ranging programs supporting alumni activities are often developed behind the scenes at the alumni association by an exceptional team led by Executive Director Gretchen VanValkenburg. With a desire to enhance our strong network, we are pleased to be part of the Auburn Advancement group under the leadership of Senior Vice President for Advancement John Morris.

Our well-respected position, both as a university and as an alumni association, is a result of many years of devotion by members of the Auburn Family, including you. Thank you for your commitment to our great university. We need your involvement, your encouragement and your hard work to continue our worthwhile mission of connecting Auburn alumni and friends.

I thank you for this opportunity to serve. War Eagle!