The Power of the Pack

The alumni network is a powerful connector, according to Kieran Goldbeck. 

The bond Goldbeck ’24 felt to NC State during the time he earned his MBA inspired him to continue building that connection after graduation. He now serves as the alumni network leader for the Forsyth County Alumni Network, keeping alumni through the years – and miles – connected.

“It brings together graduates from all walks of life and career stages. It also plays a key role in welcoming the next generation of Wolfpack students,” he said. “Whether it’s sending off incoming students, offering mentorship or simply showing up as a support system, the network helps extend the Pack spirit far beyond campus. It ensures that wherever life takes us, we always have a strong, supportive community to lean on.”

“It ensures that wherever life takes us, we always have a strong, supportive community to lean on.”

Goldbeck describes his path to NC State as different from most. “I attended the MBA program during the tail end of COVID, in a hybrid environment. Even with that format, I immediately felt welcomed and connected with both my classmates and the faculty.”

It’s that sense of connection that contributed to The Princeton Review naming NC State 11th among the 20 Best Alumni Networks for Public Schools. The rankings are based on college student ratings of alumni activity and visibility on campus.

Get Connected

Alumni activity starts early at NC State with the Student Alumni Association. The SAA is open to all students and serves NC State by promoting and participating in campus traditions such as Red and White Week and the Celebration of Pack Traditions. In addition, students are able to network with an engaged group of alumni who offer academic and career advice.

NC State also offers a variety of volunteer communities to keep alumni connected post graduation. Those range from affinity groups to more than 30 regional networks around the country. Events include everything from philanthropy and athletic events to game watches and Red and White Week. NC State Alumni also offers access to a number of career and professional development resources. 

“Because of our alumni, being part of NC State doesn’t end at graduation – it’s a lifelong bond,” said Allison Hughes, Director of Engagement for Volunteers. “Our alumni who serve as regional network volunteers and event hosts are the heartbeat of the Wolfpack alumni community. Their passion, time and dedication are what keep the Pack connected across generations and geographies.”

Guadalupe Arce Jimenez ’14 is president of the Latinx Alumni Network. She said giving back is something that has always been part of who she is.

“As a young student applying to colleges, I was fortunate that I connected with individuals who volunteered at nonprofits that gave back to the community. Without their support and heart toward the vocation of giving back, I would not be where I am.

“I volunteer because while at NC State, I found a home, and, most importantly, I found myself. I volunteer in creating spaces for those needing a place that understands them and creates a community for them to thrive,” Arce Jimenez said.

NC State received additional recognitions from The Princeton Review that included:

• #6 Top 20 Best Value Colleges Without Aid (Public Schools)
• #9 Top 50 Best Value Colleges (Public Schools)
• #15 Top 20 Best Schools for Internships (Public Schools)

It Takes a Pack

Building opportunities for alumni to connect takes an entire Pack across the university working together. 

“Being a graduate of NC State is more than a place we went; it’s a lifelong identity,” shared graduate of the College of Natural Resources, Carly Dressen ’15, who now serves as assistant director of alumni engagement and stewardship at the Wilson College of Textiles. 

“Whether I’m connecting young alumni to our students through the Blend Mentorship Program or meeting fellow graduates across the country, I’m always reminded that Pack pride runs deep. Our shared experiences and values create instant bonds that transcend class years, colleges and even careers.”

“Our shared experiences and values create instant bonds that transcend class years, colleges and even careers.”

To engage alumni, Dressen has hosted a number of events through the years ranging from the Portland Textiles Alumni and Friends Social to the Textile Bowl Alumni and Friends Tailgate.

“By keeping the Pack connected, we build a stronger network that opens doors, fosters mentorship and celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of our alumni family,” added Dressen.

The Pack is gathering near you. 

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This post was originally published in NC State Alumni Association.