Auburn’s College of Education launches new alumni ENGAGE Council

Auburn University’s College of Education recently launched a new council focused on alumni engagement. 

The ENGAGE (Educate, Network, Grow, Advocate, Give, and Empower) Council held its first organizational meetings on Feb. 16 and 17 on the campus of Auburn University. 

The council, comprised of 15 College of Education alumni and friends, will focus on strategies for engaging alumni through events and activities, with council members being present at College of Education activities as well as representing the college at local high school career and recruiting events.

“We are excited to have such a talented group of alumni and friends committed to offering their experiences, insights and enthusiasm in support of our mission of building a better future for all,” said Jeffrey Fairbrother, dean and Wayne T. Smith Distinguished Professor of Auburn's College of Education. “Each council member brings invaluable assets that will help us shape the future of our college and grow our engagement among our strong alumni base and beyond.”

The council is being chaired by Michael Dugan, who earned his Bachelor of Science degree in secondary science education from the College of Education in 1997. 

Dugan has held several varied roles revolving around teaching and inspiring others. He was a football coach, taught high school A.P. Physics and Chemistry, entered the corporate training and development world and became an innovation and creativity consultant. Following the publishing of his book “Saving Innovation,” he has focused on innovation coaching and his role as an Adjunct Professor of Innovation at the University of Minnesota Law School. He also has written six film screenplays.

"As anyone who has ever taught, coached, mentored, or helped heal another knows, the gratification comes from seeing those you poured your gifts into thrive,” Dugan said. “This council is excited to build and strengthen relationships with alumni, current students, and those who have not yet begun their Auburn journey. We want those who came before us to be proud of the work we do and can't wait to see how the next generation builds on our work so Auburn and its family continue to flourish."

Members of the council who will serve two-year terms are as follows: Amy Baker, Duriel Barlow, Courtney Bass, Suzette Doepke, Jennifer Dugan, Michael Dugan, Jim Krudop, Mark Marshall, Cynthia McCarty, Churmell Mitchell, Sandy Naramore, Stephen Pruitt, Paul St. Onge and Marcia Webb. 

In addition to its overarching goals, the council will include the following committees: Engagement Committee (to foster connection among all stakeholders through events and programs), Student and Early Career Alumni Committee (with a focus on engaging current students and recent graduates from the past years, helping them transition into the alumni community and also promoting alumni association membership to graduating students); and the Awards and Recognitions Committee (to maintain and enhance communication between the institution and its alumni, promoting engagement and institutional pride and recognizing alumni’s achievements.)