CFANS Alumni Society
Board of Directors
The Alumni Society is led by a volunteer board of directors committed to engaging individuals and organizations in the life of the College and the University of Minnesota. Learn about the role of board members and how you can join the board of directors.
Alumni Society Committees
Alumni society committees work to support student development, expand educational and outreach opportunities, develop pride and spirit, and raise financial support for the college. If you are interested in serving on one of the committees below, or related events and activities, please contact CFANS Alumni Relations at [email protected].
Alumni to Alumni
Alumni to Alumni
- Programs and activities that create an inclusive environment for alumni to connect and network with each other. Expand relationships with alumni in Minnesota, across the country, and around the world.
- U of M Maroon and Gold Network — free network for U of M students and alumni
- Industry alumni groups — partner with UMAA to create CFANS alumni groups within Minnesota-based companies, such as Land O’ Lakes, Cargill, Compeer, CHS, etc.
- Encourage alumni participation in the CFANS Mentor Program and Alumni Connectors.
Alumni to College
Alumni to College
- Programs and activities that create strong and long-lasting connections between alumni and the CFANS College and campus.
- Conduct an annual needs-assessment meeting between Alumni Society Board representatives and the heads of each CFANS department - new in 2021.
- Classes Without Quizzes — Launched in 2002 as an innovative, engaging seminar for adults to learn about CFANS science initiatives and research.
- Borealis Night of Excellence — This annual event recognizes students, staff, alumni and friends who have made significant contributions to CFANS and the community.
- CFANS Homecoming activities — CFANS Sampler and Homecoming Parade Party features College departments, research and products. Here’s a link to the 2025 event.
Alumni to Student
Alumni to Student
- Programs and activities that support the college's effort to reach prospective students and link alumni with current students to build a solid foundation for their CFANS experience, as well as motivate long-term engagement after they graduate.
- CFANS Mentor Program — Matches approximately 200 students and postdocs with alumni and industry professionals who share career insights and guidance.
- Policy Engagement Program — A volunteer program that provides students with an opportunity to work within the legislative process and gain an on‐the‐ground understanding of the methods and techniques used to influence our political process.
- Networking Night — an annual networking event for students to connect with alumni and professionals in their fields of interest.
- Norman Borlaug Science Achievement Award — Established in 2005, this award recognizes high school juniors who excel in science.
- Explore opportunities to expand focus and programming in the first 6 weeks of the semester to enhance student retention.
- Engage with CFANS Alumni Society Scholarship recipients to build connections and a supportive network.
Resource Development
Resource Development
- Programs and activities that engage sponsors and expand donations to CFANS; build deep connections and long-term relationships.
- Connect with current program sponsors to expand their knowledge of CFANS programs, research and students.
- Develop a stewardship plan to foster connections and build long-term relationships with current and prospective sponsors and donors.
- Expand the portfolio of individual donors.
- Here’s a look at the scholarships and funds that the CFANS Alumni Society has established.
- Harvey Jones Scholarship Fundraiser - Held each year since 2004, the golf scramble has raised more than $300,000 for new student scholarships. From 2020-2024 it was a virtual event. In 2025 it was held at Top Golf.
Executive Committee
Executive
- Provides leadership to the CFANS Alumni Society
- Oversees implementation of the annual plan.
- Facilitates board engagement and the recruitment of the Nominating Committee.
- Supports the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access Committee.
