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Connect: affinity networks

Help us strengthen and grow our alumni networks. We warmly invite and encourage participation from people of all backgrounds.

Whether you’re interested in attending or planning events, sharing your expertise, or deepening your connections to community, there are many ways to participate. Reach out and get involved today!

Group photo of Black Affinity Network group holding UR banner

Black Alumni Network

The Black Alumni Network is a leadership organization dedicated to empowering, connecting, and celebrating University of Rochester alumni. By fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration among alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the University, the Network cultivates enduring personal and professional relationships and offers a lasting sense of community and family.

Global Co-Chairs
Anika Simone Johnson ’18W (EdD)
Sean Allen ’11 (MS)
Emerson Fullwood P’03, P’14 (Trustee)

To get involved, please contact:
Nkiruka McGinnis, Senior Director of Affinity Networks and Programs

Email Nkiruka McGinnis
2 people sitting on a bench in the quad with their backs towards the camera and MELIORA letters in white in the background

First Generation Network

The First-Generation Network is a supportive community for alumni, students, and families, offering mentorship, networking, and resources to help confidently navigate the University of Rochester experience. Open to all first-generation students—those who are the first or among the first in their families to pursue higher education—and their supporters, the network empowers academic and professional success.

Global Co-Chairs
Douglas Austin ’98, ’04S (MBA)
Alisa Jimenez ’14

To get involved, please contact:
Jeanette Perez-Colby, Associate Director of Affinity Networks and Programs

Email Jeanette Perez-Colby
Latin American Network group photo

Latin Alumni Network

The Latin Alumni Network is an inclusive community of volunteers providing students, faculty, and staff opportunities to engage, network, and mentor. The network collaborates with the University to develop community-driven programming grounded in the richness of the Latin/Hispanic culture.

Global Co-Chairs
Iveth Reynolds ’12S (MBA)
Jennifer Feliberty ’16S (MS)

To get involved, please contact:
Jeanette Perez-Colby, Associate Director of Affinity Networks and Programs

Email Jeanette Perez-Colby
Group photo of Women's Network

Women’s Network

The volunteer-led Women’s Network harnesses and celebrates the rich contributions of women around the globe who are part of the University of Rochester family. Through dynamic programming and engaging conversations, the Network will help members connect and support one another.

Global Co-Chairs
Judith Reinsdorf ’86 (Trustee)
Karla George ’21S (MBA)

To get involved, please contact:
Sarah Heisman Wallace, Associate Director of Affinity Networks and Programs

Email Sarah Heisman
a green metal flag statue over a blue sky and the University campus in the background

Advisory Council for Inclusive Engagement

The Advisory Council for Inclusive Engagement is a national volunteer body that helps to foster meaningful connections among alumni, students, and the URochester community from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The Council leverages its collective insight, energy, and resources to support the University of Rochester in cultivating a welcoming and collaborative environment that reflects the richness of its community.

Global Co-Chairs
Ashley N. Campbell ’09, ’10W (MS)
Curtis Johnson ’88 (Trustee)

To get involved, please contact:
Nkiruka McGinnis, Senior Director of Affinity Networks and Programs

Email Nkiruka McGinnis

Learn more

Nkiruka (Nky) McGinnis

To explore a variety of options for supporting affinity programs at the University of Rochester, please contact our Senior Director of Affinity Networks and Programs Nky McGinnis.

When not caring for critically ill patients as assistant nurse manager at Strong Memorial Hospital, Farrell Cooke ’14, ’19N, ’24S (MBA), finds time to volunteer with The Meliora Collective, the Rochester Network Leadership Council, and the Women’s Network. Cooke, who found her calling and a network of lifelong friends at the university, says, “Rochester made me who I am today.”

–Farrell Cooke ’14, ’19N, ’24S (MBA)

To get involved in the campaign, complete our interest form and we’ll be in touch.

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For our students. For our patients. For our world.