Seahawks Build Friendships and Stay Connected

UNCW graduates know that staying connected to professors and former classmates is a great way to create opportunities. "The people I met while at UNCW have had a big impact on my life," recalls Ryan Kawamoto '08. The recent graduate stays updated on what's happening on campus and reaches out to other alumni through the Facebook page and Linkedin group, even from across the country.

While at UNCW, Ryan studied business and marketing and was actively involved in many areas of college life. Reflecting, he states, "I miss Galloway, Wag breakfast, intramural sports, CSB, being an orientation leader, a student ambassador, and most of all, immersed in school spirit." Shortly after graduation, Ryan used the connections he created while at UNCW to secure an interview with The Ellen DeGeneres Show. He packed up, traveled across the country, and landed the job. Adapting to a new area and staying on top in a competitive field hasn't always been easy, but Ryan keeps in touch with his past professors and fellow alumni who provide support and guidance. Now employed there for two years, he's enjoying every minute.

"I love interacting with everyone and creating life long friendships." Ryan's impact on UNCW is a testament to that. As a senior, he worked with the Rainbows Corporation to make a teal version of the popular footwear. Now, the bookstore carries more than four varieties of Rainbow sandals for Seahawks.

Read more about alumni who are making an impact in Wilmington, and all over the world during the Seahawk Summer Feature. Check out the posts on Justin Queen '04 owner of an advanced technology web marketing company, or Lindsay Rowe '08 teaching in South Korea,  Brad Knighton '06 who plays in MLS with the Philadelphia Union and Ryan Crecelius '06 whose real estate business is helping to shape Wilmington's future.  

Alumni Leader Helps to Grow Triangle Chapter

Over the last few years, a group of dedicated alumni and the Alumni Relations staff have been working hard to increase programming for regional chapters. As the 2008-2010 Triangle Area Alumni Chapter President, one of those alumni, Matt Glova '07, is seeing of the fruits of his labor.

Organizing more than 7,500 alumni in the triangle area is no small feat. Through networking and assisting communication efforts, Matt and the chapter's steering committee, increased attendance during annual events, such as the Durham Bulls Picnic. The group also developed new events for area alumni, a Fall Dinner held at a local country club, and a Spring Mixer for a fun night of networking and dancing.

A business major while at UNCW, Matt now works as a Certified Financial Planner in Raleigh. Along with participating on the Alumni Board of Director's, he is also a member of the E.L. White Society. Matt enjoys staying in touch with UNCW and fellow alumni and will remain on the Triangle Chapter's executive board. With the Durham Bulls alumni picnic just around the corner, he's excited to spend time with friends and meet the new UNCW basketball coaches.