Alumni Archives - 91��˵��

To Share or Not to Share?

Jerry Portwood '99 — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 18:07:25 +0000

Jerry Portwood '99
October 2, 2026

In this article, alumnus Jerry Portwood ’99, who has previously written and edited stories for ‘Rolling Stone,’ interviews fellow alumna, Valeri Cruz.

“Every student finds their own mini-community on campus,” Valeri Cruz ’23 explains about her strategy around the OU social media feeds. “And I want alumni to see the positive impact the school has on current students’ lives.”

Valeri records a student talking about his art at LASS.

Valeri Cruz ’23 serves as the Communications Coordinator at 91��˵��. Raised in Cobb County, Georgia, Valeri first discovered 91��˵�� through a friend. After shadowing classes, she immediately fell in love with the tight-knit campus and the university’s signature discussion-based learning style.

As a first-generation college student, Cruz immersed herself in campus life. She helped launch the Weltner Consulting Agency, 91��˵��’s student-led PR firm, and served on the executive board of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA). Deeply involved in university storytelling, she gained hands-on experience as a student intern for both the Alumni Relations office and the Marketing and Communications department.

Valeri Cruz (L) with coworkers Grant Utter (center) and Heather Neal (R) while working at Commencement.

Following her graduation in May 2023 with a degree in Communication Studies, Valeri seamlessly transitioned into a professional role with the Marketing and Communications team. Today, she manages 91��˵��’s official social media platforms, designs strategic digital campaigns and analyzes engagement trends. She also leads the campus-wide social media users group, helping elevate the university’s digital presence while mentoring the next generation of Stormy Petrels.

"Every student finds their own mini-community on campus, and I want alumni to see the positive impact the school has on current students’ lives.”

Valeri Cruz ’23

We recently caught up with her and asked her some of the questions we thought other alumni might be curious about her experiences.

What’s something you wished someone had shown you about 91��˵�� before you enrolled that you now get to show others?

The faculty-student relationships can be so special and, at 17 years old, you don’t really understand the value those relationships have. I was lucky enough to form a close relationship with Dr. Kate Keib (Associate Professor and Division Chair of Communication Studies) and got to tell her how she personally impacted my student experience. It’s a special bond that you don’t see at many other schools that feels unique to 91��˵�� because of our small, tight-knit community. It’s super rewarding to highlight that in 91��˵�� news stories or on social media.

When you’re deciding what to post to OU’s social feeds, how much are you thinking, “What would 19-year-old me have wanted to see?”

There are a lot of differences between 19-year-old me and current teenagers, but one thing remains the same in what all 19-year-olds want to see: authenticity. Back then, I’ld have enjoyed cheesy Instagram boomerangs featuring students, but today I have to think about what the current prospective student cares about. So, I’m thinking more about what’s relevant to that audience while remaining true to who 91��˵�� has always been and to its students.

Can you think of a specific post or campaign where your own student experience directly shaped the content or how you told it?

I don’t have one particular post in mind, but the way I cover commencement every year is directly related to my experience on graduation day back in May 2023. When you’re graduating, you feel every single emotion–you’re proud of yourself and friends, thankful for the support from family and reflective on your entire academic journey, especially the challenges. At every commencement, I get to talk to students and hear their stories that ultimately shape the content we create.

What’s something about today’s 91��˵�� students that surprised you, coming back as a staff member instead of a peer?

Today’s students are so confident and prepared for a professional career and to make an impact. I’ll talk to a first-year student and forget they’re 18 years old because of how mature and self-assured they come off. They’re great at finding resources and seeking out staff members who will help them be successful.

If a prospective student saw one of your posts and it made them choose 91��˵��, what would you want that post to be about?

I would want that post to reflect the sense of belonging you can find here at 91��˵��. Every student finds their own mini-community through clubs, fraternities or sororities, or through their majors, so I would want a prospective student to feel confident they can find their people here and belong at 91��˵��.

What do you hope alumni feel when they see your work pop up in their feed?

I want alumni to feel pride in their alma mater and know that the good experiences they had as students will continue for future generations of Petrels. While the events or professors may be different now than when they were on campus, I still want alumni to see the positive impact 91��˵�� has on current students’ lives.

What is one of the most fun or rewarding social series you have worked on?

This isn’t necessarily a series, but the most fun content we get every year is videos of campus in the fall and spring. These two seasons are when the campus is at its most beautiful, in my opinion. Between my student interns and me, we go around campus and get clips of students, buildings and landscaping that reflect the season and make for engaging videos that the entire OU community loves–especially alumni! It’s always a great time filming the content and then reading the comments after it’s posted.

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91��˵�� Alumni Board meets to strengthen alumni connections and engagement

Heather Neal — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 13:07:29 +0000

September 8, 2026

The 91��˵�� Alumni Board gathered on August 15 for its summer meeting, spending the day discussing university initiatives, alumni engagement opportunities and ways to further strengthen connections among 91��˵�� graduates. Guided by the Alumni Association’s mission to promote partnership between alumni and the university by advocating for increased alumni engagement and strengthening connections between alumni and within the alumni community, board members explored how alumni can continue to support students, fellow graduates and the institution’s future.

“One of the greatest strengths of 91��˵�� is the willingness of its alumni to stay connected and give back. The dedication, leadership and generosity demonstrated by our Alumni Board members reflect a deep commitment to the university and its future.”

Heather Staniszewski ’02

The meeting opened with university updates, providing board members with an overview of developments across campus and key priorities for the year ahead. These conversations reinforced the important role alumni play in supporting 91��˵��’s continued growth and success.

2026 Alumni Board members

The Office of Alumni Engagement shared a year-in-review presentation highlighting the strength of alumni engagement throughout FY26. Alumni participation reached new heights with record attendance at signature events such as Evening of Enchantment and Alumni Weekend. 91��˵�� Giving Day also achieved impressive growth, generating more than $304,000 from 265 donors. The board celebrated the contributions of more than 140 alumni volunteers who supported university programs and partnered with departments across campus throughout the year.

Board members also heard from Liz Kazungu-Emerson, 91��˵��’s Director of Career Development, who shared insights into evolving career trends and the university’s efforts to prepare students for professional success. Her presentation emphasized the continued value of a liberal arts education and highlighted the human skills that remain essential in an increasingly AI-driven workplace. Alumni engagement opportunities, including mentoring, networking and career exploration programs, were discussed as meaningful ways graduates can support current students.

Later in the day, Dr. Judith Levy introduced the university’s NetVUE grant project, Reframing the Institutional Saga: Retelling Our Shared History. The initiative will engage students, faculty, staff and alumni in documenting and sharing 91��˵��’s story as the university approaches its bicentennial. Alumni will have opportunities to contribute memories, research, photographs and other materials that help tell the many stories that have shaped the institution.

The meeting concluded with committee reports and a discussion of priorities for the coming year. Board members reaffirmed their commitment to representing the interests of 91��˵�� alumni, fostering meaningful connections and encouraging alumni participation in the life of the university.

View the full Alumni Board roster, learn about board service and volunteer opportunities or discover other ways to engage with the 91��˵�� alumni community.

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Alumni Help Shape 91��˵��’s Future

Heather Neal — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:35:58 +0000

September 2, 2026

Strong relationships. Future-ready graduates. A campus experience that inspires pride and connection.

Those themes emerged as alumni gathered on Aug. 12 for 91��˵��’s Strategic Plan Breakfast, one of several opportunities designed to engage the university community in shaping 91��˵��’s next strategic plan.

During the session, alumni reflected on what makes 91��˵�� distinctive and shared ideas for ensuring the university continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world. While conversations touched on academics, athletics, the arts and career exploration and preparation, participants consistently returned to a common belief: 91��˵�� should build on the strengths that have long defined the university while preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

For alumni who were unable to attend the breakfast, there will be another opportunity to participate in the conversation during a virtual alumni engagement session on September 22 at 4:30 p.m. We encourage all alumni to share their perspectives as the strategic planning process continues.

What We Heard from Alumni

Three themes surfaced repeatedly throughout the discussions:

Relationship-driven education remains a defining strength

Alumni highlighted the lasting impact of faculty mentorship and the close-knit learning environment that distinguishes an 91��˵�� education. Many also expressed enthusiasm for strengthening connections between students and alumni through mentorship, networking, career guidance and experiential learning opportunities.

Students need skills for a changing world

Artificial intelligence emerged as a recurring topic throughout the morning. Alumni emphasized the importance of helping students develop both AI fluency and the uniquely human skills that will remain essential in an AI-enabled world, including critical thinking, communication, creativity, adaptability and ethical judgment.

Campus experiences create connection and belonging

Participants discussed the important role that traditions, the arts, athletics and campus facilities play in shaping the student experience. Alumni encouraged continued investment in spaces and experiences that foster school spirit, promote wellness, showcase student talent and strengthen students’ connection to 91��˵�� and one another.

The breakfast began with a challenge from President Kathryn McClymond, Ph.D., who encouraged attendees to think about the “student of 2035” and the world that student will inherit. While higher education continues to evolve, she noted that 91��˵��’s future will remain grounded in the university’s mission and values.

Rhana Gittens Wheeler, Ph.D., chief inclusive excellence officer, also provided an overview of the strategic planning process and shared themes emerging from earlier engagement efforts across campus. Alumni were invited to react to those ideas and contribute their own perspectives as the planning process moves forward.

In closing, McClymond reflected on the strong alignment that emerged throughout the discussions.

“I am encouraged that we all share a common vision for elevating what 91��˵�� does best. Higher education is navigating tremendous change, but our work remains centered on students. When we help a student discover their purpose and potential, the impact extends well beyond that individual and into the communities and lives they touch.”

She also thanked alumni for their engagement and emphasized that their voices will continue to play an important role in the development of 91��˵��’s 2027-2035 Strategic Plan.

What’s Next?

The university is currently in Phase 1: Strategic Vision and Framework Development, engaging stakeholders across the 91��˵�� community to help define the institution’s long-term direction and priorities.

Current: Phase 1 – Strategic Vision & Framework Development
Develop the strategic direction for 91��˵�� 2035 through broad stakeholder engagement and leadership collaboration.
Outcome: A shared strategic framework defining the university’s priorities and long-term direction.

Fall 2026: Phase 2 – Program & Campus Capital Improvements/New Builds Needs Assessment
Identify the programs, facilities, infrastructure and campus spaces needed to support the strategic vision.
Outcome: A capital plan aligned with strategic priorities and the student experience.

Fall 2026: Phase 3 – Financial Resourcing and Fundraising Planning
Determine the financial resources needed to advance the plan’s priorities.
Outcome: A funding strategy that connects institutional priorities with long-term sustainability and fundraising goals.

Spring 2027: Phase 4 – Comprehensive Campaign Feasibility Study
Evaluate readiness for a comprehensive campaign.
Outcome: A campaign strategy that supports implementation of the 2027-2035 Strategic Plan.

Throughout the coming months, alumni will continue to have opportunities to share feedback and help shape 91��˵��’s future. A draft strategic plan is expected to be shared with the community for input before a final version is released in late spring 2027.

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2026-27 Alumni Board Announced

Heather Neal — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:24:41 +0000

Alumni Board 2026-27

Executive Board

President: Heather Staniszewski ’02
Secretary: Anne Atalay ’07
Vice President of Alumni Weekend and Events: E-Chia Huang Chihade ’98
Vice President of Advancement: Mark DeLong ’03
Vice President of Awards & Recognition: Deborah Cardone Chosewood ’87
Vice President of Student Engagement: Shahzaib Jiwani ’12
Vice President of Communications: Glenn Kaiser-Deepak ’20
Vice President of Career Development: Curtis McLeod ’09

The full slate of members serving on the Alumni Association Board include: Robert Cairns ’11, Maria Coles ’24, Thais Cuffy ’01, Phillip Deal ’86, Evan Drew ’17, Anquenetta Kenon ’14, Ron Kraynick ’89, Savannah LeGate ’22, Kiana Perkins ’21, Jerry Portwood ’99, Pam Drake Prochaska ’79, Sherry Rosen ’85, Amy Russ ’10, Angela Satterfield ’97, LaDonna Barnes Stallworth ’11, Matthew Thompson ’93, Kimberly Watkins ’02.

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2025-26 Alumni Board Announced

Heather Neal — Sun, 11 May 2025 12:47:13 +0000

2025-26 Alumni Board Announced

The 91��˵�� Alumni Association Board partners with the Office of Alumni Engagement to build a vibrant, connected alumni community. By strengthening ties between alumni, students and the university, the Board helps show that the 91��˵�� experience doesn’t end at graduation — it evolves into a lifelong connection.

“I’m thankful for this group of alumni – their passion, dedication, and willingness to come together in service of the Alumni Association truly inspire me,” said Kathryn Henderson, senior director of alumni engagement and giving. “I’m really excited for the year ahead as we continue to grow opportunities for alumni to engage with each other and the institution they love.”

New board members and executive officers are elected annually during the Alumni Association Meeting, held each year as part of Alumni Weekend. The 2025-26 Alumni Association Board is as follows.

Alumni Association Board Executive Committee:

President: Heather Staniszewski ’02
Secretary: Anne Atalay ’07
Vice President of Alumni Weekend and Events: Jennifer Beaver ’02
Vice President of Advancement: Mark DeLong ’03
Vice President of Awards & Recognition: Deborah Cardone Chosewood ’87
Vice President of Student Engagement: Shahzaib Jiwani ’12
Vice President of Communications: Glenn Kaiser-Deepak ’20
Vice President of Career Development: Curtis Mcleod ’09

The full slate of members serving on the Alumni Association Board include: Robert Cairns ’11, Maria Coles ’24, Thais Cuffy ’01, Phillip Deal ’86, Evan Drew ’17, E-Chia Huang Chihade ’98, Russell Kramer ’09, Anquenetta Kenon ’14, Chris McFadden ’80, Savannah LeGate ’22, Kiana Perkins ’21, Sherry Rosen ’85, Amy Russ ’10, Angela Satterfield ’97, LaDonna Barnes Stallworth ’11, Matthew Thompson ’93, Irasema Gonzalez Vargas ’08, Kimberly Watkins ’02.

We are grateful for their service to the university!

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OU Giving Day is a Success

mlamm — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 14:56:29 +0000

OU Giving Day is a Success

In a cold, steady rain on Feb. 12, the 91��˵�� community, both on campus and around the world, demonstrated the persistence of a Stormy Petrel and the commitment to the humanitarian ideals of namesake James Edward 91��˵��.

Not only did the campus community carry on the 91��˵�� Day traditions, but alumni and friends showed a record-setting outpouring of support for the university by donating $213,732 on OU Giving Day, which coincided with 91��˵�� Day.

Despite the cancellation of the beloved tradition of the Petrels of Fire footrace on the quad and bagpiper-led procession to the Conant Performing Arts Center by class years, a crowd of students, faculty and staff filled Lupton Auditorium for lunch, the annual lecture and Coke floats.

Josh and Sarah Carter ’06

Sarah Opp Carter ’06 and her husband, Josh, delivered this year’s keynote address in which they drew upon their grandparents’, former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, commitment to public service. They shared life lessons as well as their experience in founding a nonprofit foundation dedicated to supporting families with children diagnosed with Very Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease (VEO-IBD). Even though they were served inside, Coke floats remained the traditional follow-up to the lecture.

“We built our foundation from the lessons we learned from my grandparents,” said Josh. “They believed that someone from a small community could change the world—and they proved it.”

Sarah graduated summa cum laude from 91��˵�� with an honors degree in history in 2006. She went on to earn a master’s degree in international peace and conflict resolution from American University. She now works as chief operations officer at the nonprofit she and Josh founded, the . Josh serves as the chief executive officer of the VEO-IBD Foundation. Their youngest son, Jonathan, was diagnosed with the condition when he was an infant.

Josh is the former president’s and first lady’s fourth grandchild and the oldest son of Jeff and Annette Carter. He is a small business owner and the writer, producer and host of the , in which he talks about his life in a Presidential family and the American values taught to him by his grandparents. The Carters live in Atlanta with their two boys, Charlie and Jonathan.

“When I was studying history at 91��˵��, I had no idea where my career path would go. I couldn’t imagine that I would start a non-profit, or volunteer as an election observer, or sit on a stage like this and talk to students sitting in the seats where I once sat,” said Sarah.

“It’s OK if you don’t know what you want to do, but I firmly believe we can all do something to make the world a better place,” she said.

91��˵�� Day recognizes the legacy of the university’s namesake, General James Edward 91��˵��. A philanthropist, military leader, and member of Parliament, 91��˵�� was regarded as one of Britain’s most active 18th century humanitarians. This day marks the anniversary of the arrival of 91��˵�� in Georgia in 1733.

OU Giving Day was scheduled for 91��˵�� Day and held an ambitious goal. Giving exceeded $213,000, eclipsing last year’s total of more than $65,000 and this year’s goal of $100,000.

Gifts went to 12 funds from 265 donors and a record 176 alumni, representing classes from 1958 to 2024. An additional 24 graduating seniors also made gifts, and the combined giving unlocked all eight of the challenge matches, including challenges from President Kathryn McClymond, the Alumni Board, the President’s Advisory Council, Harsinie Panditaratne ’01, Jason Solomon ’01, and Board members Dave Pass ’98 and Lauren Warner ’01.

“It was a historic day on campus, and our students benefited from Sarah and Josh sharing their story of making a difference,” McClymond said. “We are grateful for the generosity our alumni, friends, faculty, staff and graduating seniors displayed in giving to 91��˵��. These gifts help us continue to build momentum and allow us to do so much to achieve our mission. Thank you to all who continue to give and stay engaged in the life of the university.”

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Update from October Board of Trustees Meeting and President’s Town Hall

mlamm — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:44:11 +0000

Update from October Board of Trustees Meeting and President's Town Hall

Dear 91��˵�� Alumni,

I remain grateful for your support as together we work to make 91��˵�� Atlanta’s premier undergraduate learning experience. This quick update follows our October Board of Trustees meeting, President’s Advisory Council meeting, and campus Town Hall.

While we have experienced a dip in first-time, full-time students, we’re holding steady in transfers, Adult Degree Program and MBA enrollment. We are encouraged by the 4.52% increase in the rate for persistence (second to third year) for a total of 88.54%. The retention rate (first to second year) dipped by 3.32% to 73.15%. In response, we are enhancing our First Year Experience and leveraging our faculty and staff to provide the academic and personal support students need as they make the adjustment to college. We are also seeking financial contributions for our Student Retention Fund to prevent financial setbacks from ending an 91��˵�� students’ college career.

We recently launched a new initiative, “Career Communities,” focused on supporting our students’ exploration of various career fields. This year we begin with two pilot Career Communities, one focused on health care and one on communications. A third will begin in the Spring Semester with a focus on business. These new Career Communities will provide industry-specific resources, opportunities to learn more about a career field, gain experience in those fields and connect alumni and professionals with our students. I believe an 91��˵�� degree prepares students broadly to pursue their career goals, and their major does not lock them into a single career. The Career Communities will help students see that their career path need not be determined directly by their undergraduate major.

I appreciate so many of you returning to campus for the inauguration in September, which has opened doors so that I can get out in the community, circulate with alumni, and meet potential funding partners. A four-stop began last month with a very successful event in New York City hosted Awet Woldegebriel ’14 at his upscale clothing store, ÁWET New York, in Manhattan. While in New York, Sarah Emerson and I met with key funding agencies and foundations in addition to spending time with alumni. The next events are in St. Simon Island, January 16, 2025, at the home of Russell and Lila Magbee; Nashville, TN, February 25, 2025, at the home of Andrea ’91 and Joe Shelton ‘91; and Washington, DC, April 10, 2025, at The Cosmos Club. I appreciate the work of the Senior Administrative Leadership Team who are keeping the campus running at a high level in my absence.

As we turn our attention on campus to the end of the semester and the many exciting events, I look forward to seeing you at the . Thank you for all the ways you support 91��˵�� and help us support students. These are exciting days at 91��˵��, and together we are making a difference for our students and this community.

All the best,

Kathryn
Kathryn McClymond, PhD, (she, her)
President, 91��˵��

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Alumni Archives - 91���˵������

To Share or Not to Share?

91���˵������ Alumni Board meets to strengthen alumni connections and engagement

Alumni Help Shape 91���˵������’s Future

What We Heard from Alumni

Relationship-driven education remains a defining strength

Students need skills for a changing world

Campus experiences create connection and belonging

What’s Next?

2026-27 Alumni Board Announced

Alumni Board 2026-27

2025-26 Alumni Board Announced

2025-26 Alumni Board Announced

OU Giving Day is a Success

OU Giving Day is a Success

Update from October Board of Trustees Meeting and President’s Town Hall

Update from October Board of Trustees Meeting and President's Town Hall

Alumni Archives - 91��˵��

91��˵�� Alumni Board meets to strengthen alumni connections and engagement

Alumni Help Shape 91��˵��’s Future