COSAM News Articles 2021 February COSAM students serve Auburn through Student Alumni Board

COSAM students serve Auburn through Student Alumni Board

Published: 02/16/2021

The Auburn Alumni Association’s Student Alumni Board works to engage with students on campus through student philanthropy, events and professional development opportunities. The board consistently has a presence among Auburn University programming, including Camp War Eagle, Tiger Giving Day and other projects hosted through campus organizations and groups.

The Student Alumni Board also works to raise funds for the Student Alumni Association Annual Scholarship Fund, which is available to rising seniors who are members of the Student Alumni Association.

Among the 28 students serving on the board include several students studying through the Auburn University College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM). Each board member is assigned to a committee through an application process and is responsible for its upcoming projects and initiatives for the year.

“Through these different committees, the Student Alumni Board makes sure that our organization maintains a strong campus and community presence among the Auburn University student body,” explained Caroline Brophy, the young alumni coordinator for the Office of Alumni Affairs. “The board is responsible for planning events and coordinating projects that help our members network with alumni and fellow students, raising scholarship funds and helping students build a stronger sense of connection to Auburn University in preparation for graduation.”

The board is selected through an application process and members are chosen through a selection committee made up of the Student Alumni Executive Committee as well as the Auburn Alumni Association staff liaison. This committee chooses students who exhibit exceptional leadership skills, a commitment to the organization and are goal driven.

“Being a part of the Student Alumni Board prepares students for life after their time at Auburn University,” Brophy said. “Through our organization, students are provided a variety of professional development experience which includes networking and mentorship opportunities as well as developing a relationship with Auburn University alumni. Once our board members become alumni, the Student Alumni Board will rely on them to serve as mentors and leaders for current students.”

COSAM student Patrick Rice, a junior studying biochemistry, is currently serving his third year on the Student Alumni Board. He is currently serving as vice president of membership. Rice said he has gained a great deal of insight from being part of the board.

“The two of the most significant things I have learned is the importance of teamwork and leadership,” he explained. “This experience comes from my three years as a Student Alumni Board member and executive. Overseeing committee meetings has helped me grow in both of these areas. I have the opportunity to engage with approximately 30 board members to discuss ideas and collaborate on events. Our Student Alumni Association advisors have been great examples for us.”

Joe Byorth, a sophomore studying biomedical sciences, has served on the board for almost one year and is part of the Board of Sponsorships. The committee hosts benefit nights and other events, setting up catering and securing sponsors.

“I was looking for ways to get involved on campus,” Byorth explained on why he applied to be a board member. “It has been a great way to give back to the university and has been fun to be a part of.”

Rice added that serving on the board has been one of the highlights of his college experience.

“I have made incredible friends and connections,” he said. “I have gotten to be a part of some remarkable events such as our tailgates, fundraisers, Halloween Puppypalooza, Welcome Week and more.”

Rice said he believes that the opportunities provided to him as a member of the board will allow him to be successful in future endeavors.

“One of my favorite networking events we hold is the annual board meeting dinner,” he said. “The Student Alumni Board gets to have dinner at the Auburn Alumni Center with members of the Auburn Alumni Association Faculty and Board. Students can ask questions and get advice from professionals in a career they aspire to enter. We always have a lot of fun and it is a great way to expand our network.”

Brophy said she enjoys working with such bright and motivated students through the Student Alumni Board.

“One of the most rewarding takeaways from this position is having the privilege to be able to work with some of the most intelligent, motivated and driven students that Auburn University has to offer,” she said. “I know that each member of the board has a very bright future ahead of them, and I truly look forward to seeing where life takes them!”