University, Alumni Association experiences year of accomplishment in 2008

In addition to containing a historic national election, frightening natural disasters and a slumping economy, 2008 was filled with tremendous growth and expansion for Arizona State University and the ASU Alumni Association.
The university began the 2008-09 school year with a record 67,000-plus students enrolled across the four campuses. Students, staff and faculty all performed at an exceptional level during 2008, helping the university achieve the common goal envisioned by the New American University design aspirations: impact.

Here are a few highlights from last year at ASU:

• ASU launched a major new initiative, the Complex Adaptive Systems Initiative, to revolutionize academic research through the innovative convergence of science, engineering, the social sciences and computing.
• Skysong, ASU’s Scottsdale Innovation Center, ushered in a new chapter in global engagement with the opening of its first building.
• ASU celebrated its 50th anniversary of achieving university status during 2008, starting with Founders’ Day in early March and concluding during a “Maroon and Golden” Homecoming in November.
• On the strength of three national titles and multiple conference championships, SI.com, the online publication of Sports Illustrated, lauded ASU as having the top ranked athletic department for 2007-08.

More information on ASU’s 2008 accomplishments is available online at http://asunews.asu.edu/20081219_yearinreview.

The Alumni Association also had a productive year. The organization, now 18,000 members strong, focused its efforts on honoring traditions, enhancing the alumni experience, strengthening the organization, advancing the university and increasing membership.

During 2008, the association:

• Increased its alumni chapter presence to more than 60 geographic, academic and special interest chapters. The association also began the process of developing the first international chapter in London.
• Enhanced membership benefits by expanding Sun Devil Generations, a program for the children of Alumni Association members, as well as offering member nights at various athletic events, hosting career-oriented networking events, and offering travel experiences through the Sun Devil Destinations program.
• Continued its support of students through the Student Alumni Association and launched a new program called the Senior Year Experience, which supports students as they transition into successful post-graduate lives.
• Partnered with other ASU entities to launch national and international versions of the Alumni Admissions Ambassador program. The program aids university enrollment efforts by utilizing alumni to identify, locate and connect with high school students who may be a good fit to attend the university.
• Provided financial assistance and leadership/service opportunities to more than 70 ASU students through its signature Medallion Scholarship program.