by Ryan McKeen
This past weekend, I was humbled to be asked by members of the law school’s alumni board to serve as president for the 2010-2011 term.
Prior to accepting the nomination, I sought the advice of Linda Fakhoury, the current president. Linda told me, “Think about how you want to leave your mark.”
As I’ve thought about Linda’s question and discussed it with other alumni, I’ve reached the conclusion that we have a strong alumni base, with people who hold positions in all areas of practice, from large firms and solos to government agencies and in-house counsel. Our alumni are everywhere.
I want to make “my mark” in the area of opportunity. I’m going to spend the next year asking current alumni to give opportunities. Opportunity can come in many forms, from advice to internships to jobs. I want the student who is interested in becoming a tax attorney to be able to speak with our alumni who practice tax law.
I want to work with the school to strengthen connections between career services and alumni to develop new externship opportunities.
I ask you to join me in exploring how we can generate more opportunities for both current students and alumni. Your ideas and advice are always welcome. As a board, we’re always looking for ways to connect alumni to the school.
I think St. Francis may have been speaking to our alumni when he said, “For it is in giving that we receive.”