Working in partnership with NAA staff, Global Ambassadors support alumni in meaningful ways that strengthen their lifelong connection with Northwestern and positively impact both the individual and the University. The role is intentionally flexible to meet the needs of the community and the ambassador.
Serve as a key resource for alumni and members of the Northwestern community in the region by:
Welcoming, advising, and supporting those who are new to the area, including alumni, current students, and parents, and strengthening their sense of belonging to the University
Allowing the NAA to share contact and location information on public-facing pages of the NAA website and in Our Northwestern, the University’s online alumni directory
Support other NAA and Northwestern University-sponsored activities and initiatives by:
Identifying opportunities to raise awareness of University priorities and global initiatives and helping local alumni understand the importance of philanthropy
Supporting alumni communications by sharing stories that highlight the impact and achievements of the Northwestern community
Participating in the Alumni Admission Council (AAC), including panel discussions, college fairs, and other events for prospective Northwestern students
Providing regional insights and information to the NAA as requested
Support the global alumni network by serving as a knowledgeable and approachable local resource
Identify opportunities to spotlight alumni and showcase Northwestern’s work both locally and globally
Allow the NAA to share contact information with others in the community when appropriate
Promote local, global, and digital programming and initiatives launched by the NAA
Collaborate with NAA staff to identify regional opportunities and assist Northwestern University administrators, faculty, or key stakeholders during visits, if needed
Coordinate and market a local Northwestern Connects gathering (held in January/February/March) in the region in alignment with NAA event guidelines
Help ensure Northwestern’s alumni database and records remain accurate and up to date
Refer address and email updates to NAA staff as needed
Submit local event information and attendance lists
Complete an annual survey on activities in the region and your experience as a volunteer
Read and sign the Volunteer Code of Conduct and the Confidentiality Agreement
*Ambassadors are not required to plan alumni activities or events, although they are welcome to do so. If there is interest in organizing events, please contact the NAA.
Strong relationship-building skills: Builds and actively maintains professional relationships and networks to advance the NAA’s priorities
Clear and effective written and oral communication skills
Ability to represent Northwestern University and the NAA with confidence, positivity, and a strong understanding of their vision and mission.
Global Ambassadors are appointed for a two-year term, with the option for renewal at the discretion of the NAA. The NAA has the right to end an Ambassador’s service prior to the end of the term if role expectations are not met.
This is a responsive role, and time commitments vary based on the volume of requests, regional needs, and activity.
No more than two Global Ambassadors may serve within a single territory. Renewal may not be available in regions with an active waitlist.
