Networking Brilliance: Building Connections and Igniting Innovation at Alliance 2024

It’s hard to believe Alliance 2024 is nearly upon us; it seems like just yesterday we gathered in St. Louis.  As swiftly as we departed the Gateway to the West, the program team started planning for Alliance 2024 to be held in sunny Phoenix, Arizona. 

In a handful of weeks, we will reconvene there where we will ignite innovation and thrive together. Those two things don’t happen by accident.  In fact, they build off one another.  When we ignite innovation, we thrive together.  When we thrive together, we ignite more innovation, and the cycle continues.  This is why the Higher Education User Group is such a strong community. 

Those who know me, know that I am one who enjoys the networking side of Alliance.  I look forward to seeing old friends and colleagues and meeting new ones.  I’m not alone, either.  It’s this networking which strengthens our community. 

If you are looking for ways to build your network, here are a few things you can try: 

• Introduce yourself to at least 1 new person at each session you attend.  If you are both at the same session, there’s a common interest already. 
• Talk to the vendors.  Instead of just grabbing the free swag they are offering, introduce yourself.  Take a moment to chat with them about anything, work related or not.  You’d be surprised how many friends from the vendor booths I’ve made over the years. 
• Attend the vendor events and make it a goal to socialize with a few new faces. 
• Post about your Alliance experience on social media.  When you do this, you’re potentially reaching those who are at Alliance, as well as those who could not make it this year. 

Of course, there are countless other ways you can form new relationships and foster those you already have at Alliance. 

When you do, we all ignite innovation and thrive together. 

I’ll see you in Phoenix! 

Brad Carlson 

Alliance 2024 Program Chair