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The annual EMPOWER event is hosted by the Office of Development and Alumni Relations in conjunction with the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Community Outreach. EMPOWER brings the ������Ƶ Alumni Diversity Council together with ������Ƶ students for a day of mentoring, connecting, networking, and community service. This annual event is held on the Arizona campus one year and on the Illinois campus in alternating years.

EMPOWER is an acronym for:

• Engage
• Mentor
• Promote
• Opportunity
• Welcome
• Embrace
• Respect

Staci Glass, Director of Institutional Advancement for the Office of Development and Alumni Relations, details that “through EMPOWER, alumni and students come together in a supportive space where students can seek guidance, share experiences, and find role models who reflect their own journeys. The day is about initiating conversations, celebrating diversity, and creating lasting connections that strengthen the MWU community.”

In 2024, it was the Glendale Campus’ turn to host the event, at which students and alumni got to share meals, engage in panel discussions, meet in small groups, and make cards for St. Vincent de Paul and those they serve. These activities helped build camaraderie with each other, as well as with the local community.

Students can benefit from connecting with the local community by gaining:

• Real-world experience
• Skill development
• Networking opportunities
• Cultural awareness
• Personal fulfillment
• Strong community ties

Since volunteering is an integral part of ������Ƶ’s philosophy, Ms. Glass reiterates why this event is so important: “This special day brings alumni and students together not only to foster meaningful relationships, but also to give back to the community. By serving together, we enhance students' personal and educational growth while strengthening the community we all share.”

For more information about getting involved with alumni/student events, visit /alumni/alumni-associations.