Your Alumni Association Is Growing
With more than 107,000 living alumni around the world, Saint Leo University is creating new opportunities for graduates to connect with one another and with the university. Here's what's changing – and how you can be part of it.
One Alumni Association. Six new ways to connect.
• Three College Advisory Councils
• Alumni Ambassador Program
• Quarterly meetings with the president
• Saint Leo Lifelong Learning Commitment
• Regional events strategy
• Enhanced alumni communications
These Frequently Asked Questions provide more details about the changes underway and how you can stay connected, get involved, and remain engaged with Saint Leo University through all phases of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the university making changes to alumni engagement?
Alumni expectations are evolving, and Saint Leo is changing in response to your feedback. In a spring 2025 survey conducted by the Division of University Advancement, graduates shared strong pride in Saint Leo and expressed interest in more communication, regional events, virtual engagement, and expanded career and mentoring opportunities. The updated alumni engagement model offers more flexible ways for members of our alumni community to stay connected, access career resources, and engage with the university
This approach also supports President Jim Burkee’s vision of making Saint Leo the most workforce-oriented university in the region by strengthening connections among alumni, employers, community partners, and students to expand mentorship, experiential learning, internships, and career pathways.
What does this mean for the Alumni Association?
Every Saint Leo graduate automatically becomes a member of the Saint Leo University Alumni Association upon graduation. The Alumni Association is — and will continue to be — an important part of the Saint Leo experience and a lasting connection to the university. Saint Leo is grateful for the service, leadership and commitment of alumni who have strengthened the university community through leadership roles, volunteer service, and participation in alumni events and programs.
The updated alumni engagement model is designed to connect with more of Saint Leo’s 107,000+ living alumni — wherever you are and however you choose to participate. The new approach creates opportunities for you to engage based on your interests, expertise, location, and availability. Through new programs, councils, events and volunteer opportunities, you can celebrate Saint Leo, share your expertise, support current students and help expand career pathways for future graduates. If you have previously served in an Alumni Association leadership role, we invite you to continue your involvement and bring your experience and perspective to these new opportunities.
Who's leading these changes?
Dr. Stephen Kubasek, vice president of university advancement, leads the alumni and community relations team. Recent additions include Matthew Battista, assistant vice president of advancement; Hilda Perez, associate director of partnerships and community engagement; and Santanna Valadez-Kenney, assistant director of engagement and special events. This team is here to help you stay connected with Saint Leo through events, programs, and other engagement opportunities.
What are the College Advisory Councils?
The College Advisory Councils bring together alumni professionals, industry leaders, and employer partners to collaborate directly with Saint Leo's three academic colleges. These peer advisory groups provide industry expertise, support internship and career opportunities, and help keep academic programs aligned with the evolving needs of the workforce.
Launching Fall 2026
What is the Alumni Ambassador Program?
The Alumni Ambassador Program is a flexible volunteer opportunity for alumni who want to stay connected on their own terms. Ambassadors welcome fellow alumni, support university events, assist with student recruitment, and help build the Saint Leo community across the Tampa Bay region and beyond. The program is open to alumni at every stage of life and career.
Launching Fall 2026
What are the quarterly meetings with the university president?
Saint Leo President Jim Burkee will host quarterly virtual meetings open to all alumni. These sessions will provide university updates, highlight key initiatives, and give you an opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and hear directly from university leadership.
Dates to be announced
What is the Saint Leo Lifelong Learning Commitment?
Every Saint Leo alumnus will be eligible to receive one professional certification course each year for life through the Saint Leo Lifelong Learning Commitment. The program reflects the university's commitment to providing accessible, relevant, career-aligned learning long after graduation. More information coming soon!
Launching Fall 2026
What's changing with alumni events?
Saint Leo is adopting a regional approach to alumni events, beginning in the Tampa Bay area. Career networking receptions, alumni socials, and other mission-driven gatherings will make it easier for you to stay connected with classmates and with the university wherever you live.
Launching Fall 2026
When is Alumni Weekend and will it be changing?
Alumni Weekend is scheduled for February 26-28, 2027. The weekend will include favorite traditions, such as the golf outing, along with new signature events for alumni of every generation. Each year, the planning team reassesses the event with the goal of creating the best possible experience for participating alumni and their families. Your feedback on what you love about Alumni Weekend — and what we can do better — is an important part of that process. Learn more.
Save the date: February 26-28, 2027
Are the annual Alumni Awards still taking place?
Yes, the Alumni Awards will return during Alumni Weekend 2027, recognizing exceptional members of our alumni community for their achievements and contributions. This important recognition celebrates the accomplishments of our alumni and is a valued university tradition. Award recipients will be chosen by committee, based on their accomplishments and the ways they exemplify the values and spirit of the university. Learn more.
How will the university keep alumni informed?
A new alumni email newsletter will keep you informed about university news, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, alumni benefits, and other ways to stay engaged with the Saint Leo community.
Launching Fall 2026
How do I get involved?
Watch this page, your inbox, and the new alumni newsletter for updates on the first quarterly meeting with the president, the launch of College Advisory Councils, the Alumni Ambassador Program, and upcoming events. We look forward to connecting with you!
Interested in serving on a College Advisory Council or becoming an Alumni Ambassador? Contact us at alumni.engagement@saintleo.edu to learn more.