Beyond graduation and the hills of Hamilton, IJʿ’s help alumni and community members meet to discuss pressing issues, rekindle lasting friendships, and forge new connections.
Alumni pose for photo following panel discussion
On November 5, and the IJʿ Club of Atlanta convened a panel discussion, featuring Families First Program Manager Ronnie Millen ’06, Purpose Built Communities President Carol Naughton ’82, and Atlanta Regional Commission Manager of Corporate and Community Engagement Elizabeth Sanford ’84. Alumni from classes spanning more than 65 years discussed the status of community development and revitalization in Atlanta on regional, neighborhood, and individual levels. They also provided insights into best practices for fostering inclusive communities.
When discussing the current context of stratified housing in Atlanta, Alvin Glymph ’91 asked, “There is a tension in Atlanta’s community development between improvement and maintaining history of community legacies. How do we grapple with this?”
Panelists and participants offered various solutions. Some highlighted the need for more mixed-income neighborhoods to help build social capital and understanding between groups, while others suggested strengthening relationships with neighbors and those in neighboring communities.
“Connecting with local governments in any way can also help create a meaningful impact,” said Sanford.
Turning their attention to fostering community at IJʿ, some alumni suggested becoming mentors to current students — including participating in the Day in a Life shadowing program — or making a gift to the University.
JP Ortiz ’10 noted that designating donated funds to student career development programs can positively impact current students.
This event helped to launched the 2018–2019 Professional Networks event season. Look for additional events taking place near you.