Growing engagement from Mendoza alumni means more support for students

More students than ever are getting the advice and experience they need to launch their careers with help from Mendoza’s powerful alumni network. Mendoza Alumni Relations has seen a 175 percent increase in student engagement over the last two years, with that number expected to continue growing.

Photo by Barbara Johnston/University of Notre Dame

Mendoza Alumni Relations leverages the strength of its graduates to give students valuable opportunities and insights. Alumni sponsor experiential learning projects, including overseas study programs, to broaden students’ experiences. They offer career guidance and mentorship to set up students for success. They play active roles in student clubs and organizations. And they coach students to prepare for interviews and search for jobs.

“Notre Dame offers one of the largest, most comprehensive alumni networks on the planet to help you meet your goals anywhere in the world,” said Ryan Retartha (ND ’07), director of Mendoza Alumni Relations. “They impact every step of the student journey from application to graduation and beyond.”

One of the most important benefits students receive is current, real-world industry perspectives. Alumni serve as leaders in industries students want to work in, at companies they want to work for, and in parts of the world, they want to live in.

Mendoza students also benefit from advantages that make Notre Dame’s alumni network stand out among business schools. The far-reaching network is ranked fifth for MBAs, with a global reach of 260 local groups in 42 countries. In addition, local clubs are inclusive because they accept not just Mendoza alumni, but any ND alumni currently working in a business-related career. Alumni want to be involved because they are passionate about Notre Dame, Retartha said.

That level of reach and diversity means the network can connect students with various opportunities. For example, an alumnus at the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers notified Alumni Relations and faculty of internships at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, allowing students to gain valuable experiences.

Learn more about how ND alumni can help you succeed by visiting Mendoza Alumni Relations.