Alumni Chapters

An alumni chapter is a regional, town or city based group of Witsies who want to formalise their relationship with Wits. Any alumnus may volunteer to convene a chapter. Chapters coordinate and provide opportunities for alumni to socialise and network. They organise local alumni and keep them connected to Wits. They are the official contact with the Alumni Office and Wits. Ideally convenors elect a committee. The Alumni Office provides communications and administrative support to convenors.

Establishing an Alumni Chapter

The purpose of a chapter is to create a sense of community and mutual support for Wits and Witsies.

How to start – volunteering to be a convenor

The convenor of an alumni chapter should have the following characteristics:

• Willingness to work with the University
• Willingness to contribute time
• Enthusiasm
• Ability to motivate and engage alumni

Guidelines

Think about what type of activities you are hoping to organise. Successful alumni chapters base their programme on a mixture of activities. Allow the opportunity for as many people as possible to contribute. Key activities of a chapter include:

• organising at least one or two events or activities a year to which all alumni in the region are invited
• acting as a contact point for Wits in their country or region
• offering informal advice to alumni moving into their area
• acting as a local contact point for Wits e.g. offering advice to members of staff and faculty about where to stay or hold meetings when visiting their area

How can we help?

• The Alumni Office will provide you with information about alumni in your area.
• We can send out mailings on your behalf to alumni in your area.
• We will keep you informed of any Wits academics or staff visiting your area.
• We can advise you on organising events and other activities.
• We can send you promotional material to give to guests.
• We will publicise your events to alumni in your area.

If you are keen on establishing an alumni chapter in your region, please contact Peter Maher at peter.maher@wits.ac.za

Organising a Class Reunion

Are you planning your Wits class reunion but don't know where to begin? The  Wits Alumni Relations Reunions Guide includes information, sample documents, and other resources to help you make the most of your reunion.