University of Lynchburg prides itself on the ability to change lives. In addition to receiving a top-notch education, alumni cherish relationships built through campus activities and nurture these lifelong relationships.

The Lynchburg Alumni Association Affinity Model enables the Office of Alumni Relations to tailor its outreach efforts to alumni who may identify with a group of students and other alumni through a shared culture or interest.

It also strengthens alumni connections and enhances diversity at the University by formally recognizing groups in the alumni base and providing a platform for diverse alumni programming.

Application process

Affinity groups are encouraged to have a Lynchburg liaison (preferably a student or staff member). The Office of Alumni Relations can provide additional information by calling 434.544.8293.

Obtaining Recognition from the University

1. Express interest to the Office of Alumni Relations or the chair of the Outreach Committee of the Lynchburg Alumni Board.
2. The Office of Alumni Relations will organize a meeting with the chair of the Outreach Committee and representatives from the potential group to discuss the group’s mission and goals. The meeting is organized within 30 days of the initial contact.
3. The group must apply to the Office of Alumni Relations by submitting a mission statement, description of potential programs, and list of potential officers.
   1. The information is shared with the Office of Alumni Relations and the chair of the Outreach Committee. If the information submitted is sufficient, the group will be informed within 60 days of the conclusion of the meeting.
   2. The Alumni Outreach committee shares the submitted information with the Alumni Board for discussion and vote at the board meeting.
4. The Alumni Board reviews the submitted information and votes on whether the group will obtain recognition from the University as an affinity group. If a group applies to create an affinity group in the fall, the Alumni Outreach chair will contact the group two weeks after the conclusion of the spring meeting with the status.

Guidelines for Creating an Affinity Group

1. All initial planning must include the Office of Alumni Relations, which will guide and direct the creation of the proposed affinity group. Affinity groups must be consistent with the mission and values of the University of Lynchburg.
2. Potential affinity groups must belong to one of the following categories:
   1. Multicultural (e.g., Black Alumni Society, International Alumni Society, Latino Alumni Society)
   2. Student organization-based (e.g., Student Government Alumni Society, Greek Alumni Society)
   3. Another constituency group (e.g., Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Alumni Society; Athletics Alumni Society; Business School Alumni Society)
3. The affinity group must relate to (or have related to) or serve as an extension of a University-recognized affinity-based student organization.
4. The group must create and abide by its mission statement for its duration.
5. The affinity group officers or alumni leadership must be active in their local, geographically based alumni clubs. Active status requires participation in at least one local event per year.
6. The affinity group officers or leadership must be consistent donors to the University’s giving priorities or other donor opportunities.
7. The affinity group must support and/or offer quality programming and/or fundraising opportunities to support the University’s mission and current initiatives (e.g., career mentoring and building campaigns).
8. The group should nominate an alumnus to run for election to the Lynchburg Alumni Board of Directors (a three-year commitment).
9. Each year, the group should expect to sponsor or co-sponsor an activity (or volunteer as a group) at Homecoming or another coordinated campus event. (This will be discussed/coordinated with the Traditions Committee or Lynchburg faculty and staff.)
10. The group shall foster a welcoming environment for all Lynchburg alumni who wish to join and participate.
11. The group promises to maintain active affinity group status. To remain active, the affinity group must submit a State of the Affinity Group Report to the Office of Alumni Relations by March 1 to ensure it is ready for discussion at the spring Alumni Board meeting. The report should include current membership demographics/metrics, leadership selection/election results, completed and intended programs spanning two years, and updated points-of-contact information.
12. All affinity group events and activities must be coordinated through the Office of Alumni Relations. Resources, support, and space availability are subject to change based on current University priorities and staffing demands.