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Get Involved: Affinity Group Alumni Volunteers

RISD’s Affinity Groups connect alumni with shared identity, interest or profession to one another and the school through virtual and in-person events.

There is something for everyone in the nearly two dozen established Affinity Groups. All RISD Affinity Groups welcome alumni and students with interest regardless of race, ethnicity, orientation, gender expression and identity, cultural background or regional location.

AFFINITY GROUP EVENTS

  • CREATE a stronger global community by connecting alumni, families and friends 
  • CONNECT alumni, families and friends to create a stronger global community 
  • FOSTER ongoing relationships with students and recent alumni to help them navigate life after RISD 
  • ENHANCE the lives of participants through professional, social and cultural programs 
  • PROMOTE RISD by highlighting alumni achievements SUPPORT the institution

Volunteer Leaders

Affinity Volunteer Leaders are essential to the lasting impact and success of the groups. Volunteer Leaders propose and lead events that align with their interests around the group’s central unifying purpose. Each group has its own rhythm, and RISD’s Affinity Groups Officer works with you to determine what activities and cadence makes sense for your network. Co-leadership among 2–3 volunteers is strongly encouraged. 

DUTIES

  • Help organize, plan and coordinate between two to four virtual and/or in-person alumni events per year with RISD’s Office of Alumni + Family Relations
  • Event roles: welcome attendees, capture accurate attendance, photograph events, research opportunities, coordinate speakers, food or supplies, and more depending on programming 
  • Attend your events and encourage the same from others in your network 
  • Maintain open communication with the Office of Alumni + Family Relations 
  • Recruit volunteers and help with succession for group longevity 
  • Schedule or attend most group planning meetings

REQUIREMENTS

  • A commitment to RISD and the aims of an art & design education 
  • Belief in the importance of alumni support of RISD 
  • Commitment to advanced planning that aligns with the school’s timelines and communications policies 
  • Enthusiasm as an ambassador representing RISD in a positive manner 
  • Creative thinking in planning relevant events with limited budgets, willingness to ask for help 
  • Signs and adheres to volunteer confidentiality agreement, which allows us to share alumni contact info

We invite all RISD alumni to join us and help maintain this important program. Your role as a volunteer is a positive way to engage with our global community, give back to your alma mater, and above all, be a fun and rewarding experience for you.

Interested in learning more?
Contact Alumni & Family Relations at alumni@risd.edu.