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[et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Key to bridging communication between students, administrators, and alumni are the university’s Maroon & Grey Student Ambassadors (MGSA). With the application closing March 5, the Bulldog spoke with a few members to discuss MGSA’s role and what it looks for in candidates.
Ambassadors represent the student population at various events including Homecoming Weekend, class reunions, Redlands Forums, Town & Gown events, and Commencement. While they typically attend these events in person, MGSA has continued to operate throughout the 2020-2021 virtual academic year.
MGSA President Abbi Fine ‘21 discussed the organization’s unique role.
“We represent the university at events and are a group made up of accomplished individuals who are involved in various areas on campus. Juniors and seniors are eligible for membership, and there is a multi-step application and interview process to join. This organization is a great way to network and engage with Redlands alumni as well as serve as a great representation of current Bulldogs.”
All members are successful students and strong communicators. As a representative body, MGSA has a particular emphasis on recruiting student leaders with a variety of backgrounds and interests.
According to Fine, Maroon & Grey Student Ambassadors hold a variety of identities, both to represent the student body and “to develop relationships with alumni who may share this identity. We are open to any and all applicants.”
“We carry out and uphold the values of the university by facilitating conversations between students, faculty, and alumni,” said MGSA senior Makayla Sugidono. “I personally enjoy being able to talk with the alumni population and network with others, which has been an invaluable opportunity.”
Image shows former MGSA members and Addie the Bulldog.
McKenna Kirmsse ‘21 spoke on how valuable her membership in MGSA has proved.
“What I value most about MGSA are the truly meaningful connections I’ve made with peers, alumni, and others involved in the Redlands community. I’m also truly appreciative of the self growth that has been cultivated thanks to my time in Maroon and Grey. I’m much more confident in my social abilities and my speaking skills, not only how I might say something, but what exactly it is I’m trying to convey.”
Asked about a highlight from her time in MGSA, President Fine expanded on the organization’s vital role in this year’s all-online Homecoming.
“MGSA often has a large presence at Homecoming, but we were able to pivot to the virtual format for the fall of 2020. While virtual, we were able to hold much more intimate events for specific interests, as well as invite folks who live outside of Southern California to join us. I think Homecoming was really successful, and I appreciate all of my fellow ambassadors’ hard work as well as the work of the Office of Alumni and Community Relations.”
Students who meet the organization’s application requirements are encouraged to submit their application before Saturday, March 6.
The author of this article is a member of MGSA.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
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