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 seeks to empower, connect, and celebrate the University of Rochester alumni. This group encourages communication and cooperation between alumni, students, friends, faculty, and staff, fosters a network for personal and professional connections, and provides alumni a sense of community and family.

Global Co-Chairs
Ashley Campbell ’09, ’10 (MS)
Sean Allen ’11 (MS)
Emerson Fullwood P’03, P’14

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.

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

Email Nkiruka McGinnis

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
Col E. Raimond, ’22W (EDD), JD

To get involved, please contact:
Jeanette Perez Collby, Staff Liaison

Email Jeanette Perez Collby

bannister column with "EASTMAN QUADRANGLE" carved into it with Rush Rhees library in the background

LGBTQ+ Network

The LGBTQ+ Network brings together alumni, students, friends, faculty, and staff to honor history, celebrate the present, and shape the future of LGBTQ+ excellence. Through events and conversations, the network strengthens connections, fosters engagement, and provides lasting support.

Global Co-Chairs
Col E. Raimond, ’22W (EDD), JD

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

Email Nkiruka McGinnis

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
Kathy Waller ’80, ’83S (MBA)
Abby Zabrodsky ’14 and ’19S (MBA)

To get involved, please contact:
Sarah Heisman Wallace, Staff Liaison

Email Sarah Heisman

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.

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

Count me in!

Black Alumni Network

First Generation Network

Latin Alumni Network

LGBTQ+ Network

Women’s Network

Learn more

Nkiruka (Nky) McGinnis

Career networks

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