New Assistant Director of Alumni and Parent Relations

Sue Anderson, Alumni & Parent Relations (photo BA)

"What I love about this job is working directly with people—connecting with them in ways to help them grow and, in turn, contribute to society," said Sue Anderson, the new assistant director of Alumni and Parent Relations. Anderson will assist Jack Fox, director of Alumni and Parent Relations, in creating new programs for students and alumni and strengthening existing ones.

Anderson enthusiastically described one of her first experiences in her new job: working at Freshman Admissions Day on November 14. "I talked to dozens of parents and answered questions that could lessen their anxiety or reassure them that Chico State really is a wonderful place for their son or daughter. I felt that my being there made a difference to those parents, which was very satisfying."

Anderson grew up in the Bay Area, moved to Eugene to attend the University of Oregon's School of Journalism, and, after graduation, stayed in Eugene and worked for Chamber Communications in marketing. Six years ago, as a single mom "looking to develop my career as well as have a stable community for my child," Anderson welcomed a transfer to Chico. She became involved in education, conducting workshops and putting out a newsletter for teachers as part of Chamber's Cable in the Classroom program.

When the chance came to work at the university, Anderson eagerly took it. "I've always loved the campus environment," she said, "and I am excited to be part of it."

Anderson is finishing her master's degree in Business Communication through International University, a distance learning program. She is planning to design her master's project, which will have a marketing emphasis, in such a way that the university will benefit.

Anderson is assisting in the design of a new student alumni association brochure, and is involved in planning the distinguished alumni dinner, as well as commencement. She is working on a trip to New York through the new Alumni Travel Program, which coincides with a student trip to the Model United Nations. Anderson says that she thrives on this aspect of her job: doing a variety of interesting and demanding things. "I never know what I will be doing next," she said. Anderson can be contacted at the Alumni Office, x6472.

BA/KM