The Alumni Exchange was designed to increase alumni interaction and create enriching discussions and connections between University of Minnesota community members. Organized by the Alumni Engagement Committee, this popular program transitioned from its former Alumni-In-Residence model in 2019, with the inaugural Alumni Exchange virtual launch taking place in October 2020. Each event highlights alumni as guest panelists and speakers; it promotes inclusivity, partnering with various organizations and inviting panelists representing diverse backgrounds and expertise, aligned with the subjects of interest.
Initially intended for in-person engagement, the program's virtual shift has yielded growth in both alumni participation and feedback. Notably, the Women in Public Policy event was created based on attendee response from an Alumni Exchange panel discussion. In October 2022, the program offered "Public Policy in the Private Sector," followed in January 2023 by the "Women in Public Policy" session. The pivot to a virtual format required volunteers to exhibit creativity and flexibility, all while maintaining the fundamental objective of facilitating meaningful exchanges that enrich the professional and personal lives of alumni.
The 2022-2023 Exchange series drew approximately 160 attendees, marking a significant increase from the prior year's participation. Moreover, potential board members have cited the Alumni Exchange series as a motivating factor for their board application. This dynamic program showcases adaptability, strong engagement, and continuous evolution, creating a unique platform for alumni collaboration and knowledge exchange.