The Alumni Magazine for Worcester Polytechnic Institute. (WPI)
Issue link: http://wpialumnimag.epubxp.com/i/277771
Spring 2014 43 news from HIGGINS HOUSE Gilded Conversations GOLD Chair Shares the Wealth of His Decade W PI's, Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) is the living link between WPI and graduates from '04 through '13, helping the university's youngest graduates stay connected to their alma mater—and to each other. Michael Ferro '10, chair of the GOLD Steering Committee and a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, helps guide GOLD's current group of enthusiastic alumni from the classes of 2004 through 2013 to create events and programs that cater to graduates of the last decade. In our conversation with Ferro, you can see a dedication to his class decade, and feel the excitement that surrounds this GOLD generation. How did you frst become involved with the group? I had been very active in the WPI community as an undergraduate, and after graduation I wanted to remain connected with the univer- sity. GOLD was in need of enthusiasm and lead- ership, and I found it was a natural progres- sion for me to transition from active undergraduate to active alumnus. Why do you feel it's important for alumni to stay engaged with their alma mater? They're an integral part of the strong WPI com- munity, which fosters both social and academic experiences that develop successful graduates. Remaining engaged with WPI provides an op- portunity to not only stay connected with fel- low graduates but also connect with and foster current undergrads. Alumni paid forward ex- periences and scholarship for me as an under- graduate, and I believe I have a responsibility to do the same for current students. What programming does GOLD typically offer throughout the year? GOLD has three annual events: a Homecoming Social; a Winter Social, which we've had at the Harpoon Brewery the last few years; and a Senior Welcome Reception during Senior Week where we welcome new graduates into the alumni community. What's been the focus of the group lately? The Steering Committee has two objectives. We continue to tweak our annual events to better cater to alumni and provide engagement and networking opportunities. We are also working with the Student Alumni Society and the Offce of Alumni Relations to create opportunities for students to network with alumni and transition to engaged alumni after graduation. What makes GOLD graduates stand out? I think we stand out because while we are still fnding our way in life—from new jobs to pur- chasing homes to starting families—we're still closely linked to the university and are interested in staying connected with our fellow alumni, our student clubs and organizations, and the school. How do you hope to see alumni become more involved with WPI? I would encourage all alumni to start by thinking about which group, organization, or academic department has had the most impact on them and fnding an opportunity to give of their time and/or money. Whether it's sitting on a steering committee, fnding an hour to mentor an undergraduate, or donating money annually to the university. Every bit counts and engagement can only build from there. WPI_Spring14_Alumni.indd 43 3/9/14 2:14 PM