Dear Fellow UMUC Alumni,

It is a privilege and a pleasure to serve as president of the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) Alumni Association for 2009-2010. As we approach the 20th anniversary of the Alumni Association, we are poised to be on the leading edge of change. The UMUC Alumni Association is embarking on a road of change that will embrace new technology and strategic alliances that will better serve the members of the Alumni Community.

The Board of Directors of the Alumni Association will continue to serve as advisors, advocates and fundraisers. We will support the university in a variety of ways through financial gifts and gifts of time and talent. As we continue to explore new avenues to better meet the global needs of our membership, we will focus on three pillars that are essential to the future of our organization: membership growth; benefits and services; and revenue growth. These three pillars will provide our strategic direction.

As President, I am committed to maintaining the established partnership with the university and developing new and innovative services that meet the needs of our global alumni base.

The Alumni Association encompasses a wide variety of dedicated and talented individuals. However, in order for the Association to grow, we need your involvement, your participation, your financial support and your commitment. The members of the Board of Directors are your representatives and serve as your voice. Your involvement in the Association in any capacity connects you to an organization that over time will benefit you and your career aspirations.

I have served on the Executive Board for a number of years and now stand ready to assume the leadership role as President. By accepting this role, I fully understand the challenge and recognize it is a tremendous undertaking, as well as a humbling experience.

I am honored to serve as your president and I hope you will join me in giving back to your alma mater by volunteering, making a financial contribution or participating in one of the many events offered throughout the year.

Most Sincerely,

Nathaniel "Nat" Alston, Jr. '77
President