In February, IU Southeast held its first Young Alumni Conference, inviting recent alumni to build meaningful connections with accomplished alumni. The event featured talks by IU Southeast alumni, interactive workshops, and a resources fair. Organizers aimed to help new professionals seek mentors and learn valuable information and advice that could help them succeed in their own lives and careers. The conference was sponsored by the IU Alumni Association Southeast Indiana Region.

The event began with a keynote speech by IU Southeast alumnus Richard Boling and greetings from Chancellor Debbie Ford. Richard Boling is a proud graduate of New Albany High School and IU Southeast, holding a bachelor's degree in Communcation. As the Vice President of Techshot, Boling holds a key position within the Redwire company.  Boling spoke about his experiences in the aeronautics industry and explained how some of their work involves technology used on the International Space Station.

“Our company is really about improving the human condition here on Earth,” said Boling.

Boling said his time spent at IU Southeast has had a significant impact on his career in space technology.

“This university has always been so important to me, to my career, to my development,” said Boling. “It's given me so many opportunities. I am a first-generation college graduate, and I got a great education.”

Following Boling’s speech, the group shifted to breakout sessions where they heard from an alumni panel, and learned about issues such as Bad Bosses, Personal branding, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Literacy. The event also included a resource fair and closed with a networking reception which allowed attendees and alumni to connect with each other and other area alumni.

IU Southeast has remarkable success at transitioning its students from academic success to career success, as experienced through opportunities such as the Young Alumni Conference event.

These events give students the bridge they need to successfully transition from life as a student to career success.