Alumni volunteers celebrated by University

15th June 2016

Graduate volunteers who help current students at the University of Sheffield are being celebrated as part of National Volunteering Week (Wednesday 1 June - Sunday 12 June 2016).

Volunteers were asked to share their memories and thoughts on Twitter of how their work has had a positive impact on their former university. Nearly 800 graduates from across the world have given almost 10,000 hours of their time this year, providing mentoring, training and inspiration to current students. Many people volunteer to sit on committees or advisory boards, which help provide governance or support to the University. Alumni volunteers can also offer an insight into life after graduation and provide a valuable network for students who may not have friends or family who have attended university or are in their chosen career. Nicola Black, Undergraduate Learning and Teaching Support Officer in the Department of Politics, said: -The chance to talk directly to alumni who have studied the same course and are now out there in the world of work, putting their University experiences into practice, is invaluable for our students. -In a recent thank you message to alumni following a networking event, one of our students wrote 'thank you so much for making me see that I am employable' which really sums up how important alumni engagement can be. This week, nominations for the annual Alumni Volunteer Awards have opened and students, staff and alumni are invited to nominate a volunteer who has made a positive impact. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in October. Emma Packham, Alumni Volunteering Manager, said: -National Volunteering Week is a fantastic opportunity for the University to celebrate those who have given their time to support us. -Our previous students make an outstanding contribution, and are inspirational to all our staff and students at the University of Sheffield.