Council Meeting Minutes
VCU AFRICAN AMERICAN ALUMNI COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 6, 1997
MEMBERS PRESENT: Marilyn Campbell, Rumae Foddrell, Michael Green-Russell, Regina Harris, William Johnson, Nicole Lewis, Larry Powell, Curtis Shearin, Kenneth White.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at approximately 10:20 a.m.
II. WELCOME
Marilyn asked Council members to introduce themselves.
III. APPROVAL OF JANUARY 11, 1997 MINUTES
Ms Campbell asked for a motion to approve the January 11, 1997 minutes. Moved. Seconded. Carried. Unanimous.
IV. CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Ms. Campbell reported that the Career Development Seminar was canceled because it was scheduled during Easter weekend. The Council will plan a seminar for next year. Ms. Campbell met with Susan Gunn, director of VCU=s career center, and they both expressed an interest in working cooperatively to develop a student workshop or seminar focusing on career development. Some of the issues discussed were:
- Scheduling. Both agree that March would be an ideal month for such a program.
- Consider developing an alumni database categorized by their profession.
- The Council could organize a panel of alumni to discuss career issue with the students.
- Consider conducting a student survey to help develop a format that will be attractive to VCU underclassmen.
V. OFFICE OF ALUMNI ACTIVITIES REPORT
Alumni Directory
Mr. Powell reported that the VCU Alumni Association is publishing an alumni directory this fall. The directory will be used by alumni as a networking resource. The alumni association will mail its questionnaires in two stages by the end of next month.
Web Site
Mr. Powell informed the Council that web site enhancements have been made. He encouraged Council members to review the website at http://www.vcu.edu/alumni/aaac.html and to pass along any comments or suggestions.
VI. DISCUSSION OF 1997 REUNION WEEKEND
Mr. Powell distributed copies of the 1997 Reunion Weekend brochures and highlighted events sponsored by the Council. He reported that the undergraduate step show will not take place as printed in the brochure. He also emphasized that dance tickets will be sold for $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
Mr. Powell also reported that the Council hired two photographers for reunion weekend including VCU alumnus Vincent Edmunds representing his nonprofit organization AHookups.@ Ms. Campbell added that Camilla Ham was recommended to the Council as a contact person for future DJ and video services.
Hospitality Suite
Mr. Powell reported that the Council has arranged a room block at the Holiday Inn Central. Thus far 6 rooms have been reserved.
Kenneth White suggested that the Council consider providing funds for the hospitality suite=s refreshments. After some discussion a motion was made to approve the allocation of $300 to cover refreshments for the hospitality suite in the hopes that reunion revenue will offset the expense. Moved. Seconded. Approved.
VII. BRAINSTORMING SESSION FOR 1997 SCHEDULE
The Council members discussed programming and fundraising ideas for 1997-98. Suggestions included:
- Do not conduct a talent show.
- Sponsor or co-sponsor events such as a historical reenactment, ski trips, trips to a women's professional basketball game, alumni night at the movies, a trip to Atlantic City.
- Organize a holiday reception thanking dues paying Council members.
- Co-sponsor a Christmas dance with other area Black Universities and alumni organizations.
- Sponsor or co-sponsor intellectual activities (i.e. a Fall/Winter lecture series).
- Developing programs that will generate revenue for the Council.
- Explore contacting the Landmark Theater to sponsor an alumni night at the theater.
VIII. OTHER BUSINESS
Ms. Campbell said that her feature in the Richmond Free Press resulted in an invitation from Thomas Jefferson High School to speak to their students. She reported the school may be interested in providing the Council with opportunities to serve as mentors. It was suggested that the Council work with the Office of Academic Affairs in conjunction with any joint ventures with the high school.
Meeting Dates
1997-98 Council meetings will be held in September, November, January, March and maybe May. Confirmed meeting dates will be passed along to committee members this summer.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted
Regina Harris, Secretary-AAAC