By Eric Gallippo | Art by Graciela Demerath
At the University of Michigan, our reach and influence extend far beyond Ann Arbor, resonating across continents and connecting a network of dedicated and vibrant alumni. Going Global is excited to showcase the diversity of our global community, highlighting the fantastic leaders and shared experiences that unite us all.
In every corner of the world, from bustling cities to serene rural landscapes, our international alumni clubs embody the spirit of Michigan. These communities not only celebrate the academic excellence and traditions of our alma mater but also foster meaningful connections that last a lifetime. Through physical gatherings and digital communications, they continuously enrich the Michigan experience for both alumni and future Wolverines.
To help kickoff this new segment in Going Global, we asked volunteer leaders from three of our official international alumni clubs, "What do you love most about your U‑M community and the experiences you share together?"
U‑M Club of Toronto, Club President
"I love the energy and connection the Toronto alumni club creates. Since 2011, our club has provided a place for Wolverines who are new to Toronto or who have been here their whole lives. The experiences we share together are something truly special.”
U‑M Alumni Hong Kong, Club President
“I find our Hong Kong alumni community very unique and diverse. Not only do we have business leaders, engineers, and professors, we also have musicians, a movie director, an Olympic medalist, and two Miss Hong Kong pageant contestants. The most memorable experience with this wonderful community has been watching the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship game where we beat Washington. There were over 80 of us watching at two venues together!”
U‑M India Alumni Association, Club Vice President
“The experiences are transformative, be it at the university or as an active member of our alumni clubs. Wearing a Block M cap has resulted in ‘Go Blue!’ chants in the subways of Taipei, the cafes of Paris, the shores of Morocco,and the walkways at airports around the world. The Michigan community around the world has been welcoming. I was on top of the world watching the 2024 Rose Bowl game versus Alabama at 3:30 a.m. in my part of the world, where I had a bunch of fellow alumni to celebrate the victory with. As a club member, I have interacted with alumni across five decades, where several senior alums served as mentors. An email to the club leads has often helped connect people.”
Interested in joining or starting an international alumni club?
Check the Club Finder for one active in your area. If no group currently exists and you would like to be a contact or start a club or an online community in your region, contact Natasha Novak, Associate Director of Alumni Engagement, at [email protected] for more information.