Best of CASE Asia-Pacific Region Award
 

Institution: The University of Queensland

Title of entry: UQ Global Connections

About this entry: UQ Global Connections (GC) is a series of social networking events organised for alumni by alumni, held three times a year across 41 cities globally. Alumni volunteers lead these cost-neutral events, providing our global alumni community with the opportunity to create new connections with fellow alumni in their own cities. Whether they're returning home to their country or relocating to a new city, alumni can stay connected with the UQ community wherever they are in the world!

Started by the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law in 2004, GC has grown from 10 to 41 cities globally with the highest attendance of more than 1600 alumni from 22 countries in 2023. From pub drinks in London, art auctions in Shanghai, sake tasting in Tokyo or fun runs in Jakarta, there is something for everyone.

The program delivery is effective, the UQ team handles invitations and promotion, while our Global Connection alumni volunteers manage venue bookings and host events, ensuring everyone has a good time. Attendees cover their own costs, ensuring program sustainability and growth.

With its success and growth, GC's activities have evolved beyond social events and now align with UQ's international engagement strategic pillars of social engagement, professional development and philanthropy. These activities include welcome parties for returning graduates, mentoring sessions and for the first-time last year, over 20 GC cities came together for UQ Giving Day supporting scholarships and research. GC reflects UQ's commitment to building a supportive alumni community worldwide, enhancing their experience for alumni, by alumni.