Lou Ecken Named Director of Alumni Engagement
Increasing the ways alumni interact with their alma mater is a primary goal for Lou Ecken, Alma College’s new director of alumni engagement.
Ecken begins her new role May 23. She replaces Brent Neubecker, former director of alumni relations who is now associate director of annual giving for Alma College.
A 1995 graduate and a member of the Alma College Alumni Board from 2004 through 2010, Ecken has worked as the career planning coordinator in Academic and Career Planning at Alma College since 2007. Previously, she was a school social worker for the Academic and Career Education Academy in Midland.
Lou Ecken
“Lou is an enthusiastic alumna who has experience and skills in alumni relations, event planning, administration, internship development and networking,” says Carol Hyble, vice president for advancement. “Plus, she has an extensive knowledge of and genuine passion for Alma College. She will hit the ground running.”
The position, formerly director of alumni relations, was enhanced to acknowledge the College’s increased efforts to provide more avenues for alumni involvement, particularly in the areas of student recruitment and internships.
“Connecting alumni with both current and prospective students will help students envision what the Alma Experience is about and what life will be like after graduation, whether it is leadership in a profession or involvement in community service,” says Hyble. “We will look to Lou to help expand the number of internships that alumni identify for our students as well as our alumni networks and regional events.”
In her position with ACP, Ecken implemented career programming for students and alumni, assisting with career exploration, skill building and the search progress. She also coordinated alumni-student events both on- and off-campus.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to create new ways for alumni to be involved with the College, including expanding service and travel opportunities,” said Ecken. “Alma College is such a great place. Students grow so much when they are here, and I want alumni to have opportunities to continue growing in ways that we can help.”
Ecken has a bachelor’s degree in exercise and health science from Alma College and master’s degrees in social work and public health from the University of Michigan.
Posted: Fri, May 20th, 2011 at 4:38PM
