Director of Alumni Relations & Annual Giving Ray Williams is helping revive Alumni Happy Hours in the Wichita area.
Newman alumni used to plan a gathering once a month at a local restaurant or bar to help them stay connected to the university and to each other. The gatherings, though, have been dwindling as of late, said Williams, and he looks forward to stepping in to help make the event something all alumni can look forward to each month.
“The Alumni Happy Hour is a time for us to bring any and all alumni in the area together for a free drink, appetizers and the opportunity to see former classmates and meet new alumni. It’s my hope that at these events, new connections are formed and current connections are strengthened.
“I looked at the old sign-up sheets from past years and they were very well attended; usually more than 35 people attended each month,” he said.
Williams will plan happy hours at a variety of restaurants and breweries in town including Central Standard Brewing, The Monarch and Aero Plains Brewing. He said he’s willing to do happy hours almost anywhere alumni are located as long as he knows they’re interested.
October’s meet-up will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, at The Hill Bar & Grill, 4800 E. Douglas.
“We’re buying the first drink and will have appetizers available for any Newman alumni that come by during that time,” said Williams.
For future meet-ups, check the alumni Facebook page or contact Alumni Relations at 316-942-4291, ext. 2166.
Update 11/1/18: Alumni Happy Hours are scheduled to occur every three months. Hope to see you there!
