Wartburg Alumni Association offers connections, relationships - Fall 2007 Wartburg Magazine - Wartburg College

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Wartburg Alumni Association offers connections, relationships


Jay Balek

It was just six months ago that I walked across the stage at Walston-Hoover Stadium to receive something that would change my life forever—a Wartburg College degree.

I am not sure even now I realize the true value of the degree I received from one of the premier institutions in the country. What I do know is when you mention Wartburg, people listen. They take notice of your credentials and you have an immediate leg up on the competition.

My life has been hectic to say the least—entering the working world, finding a place to live and making the decision to get married. This past July I married my college sweetheart; another benefit of my Wartburg education was meeting the love of my life. I started my new job as Client Services Associate for the Mudd Advertising group due in large part to Wartburg connections.

Although life as a new graduate can be hectic, I wanted to seek out an opportunity to give back to the institution I grew to love and admire during my undergraduate experience. It is easy as a young graduate to be consumed by the many changes taking place in your life and risk losing a connection with your alma mater. Everyday when I go to work I see at least one of my co-workers wearing a Wartburg shirt and I enjoy that connection I share with that individual.
It is true that as a young graduate you don’t have a lot of resources to contribute. It is also true you might not have the time to devote that older alumni do. But what you do have is enthusiasm and Wartburg pride! The term “giving back” has so many definitions, and it contains a different meaning to each of us. As Wartburg alumni we have an obligation to give back to the institution that has provided much more than a degree.

There are numerous ways we can give back to Wartburg College. A perfect entry point is to participate in the Wartburg Alumni Association. There are so many ways and so many levels of engagement; there is almost something for everyone. You can volunteer in assisting admissions in student recruitment, become active in your local alumni club or participate in Homecoming and reunions. If you really want to become involved, there are many leadership growth and interaction opportunities through Wartburg Alumni Association.

I would like to see a greater percentage of young alumni become engaged in Wartburg in these early years. Your support and engagement will not only benefit Wartburg; it will assist you in continuing to build the most important relationships you can with those 18,000 people who have shared many of the same experiences you and I have.

Be Orange for Life!
Jay Balek, Class of 2007