Alumni Council represents the body of more than 300,000 University of Alberta graduates who make up the Alumni Association. Alumni Council provides advice, determines programming, and works closely with the University of Alberta to strengthen the relationship alumni have with their alma mater and with each other. You can learn more about Alumni Council here. 

Christiana Dizon (‘06 BSc Nutr/Food Sci) is a dedicated alumni volunteer currently serving her second year on Alumni Council. A member of the Executive Committee and co-chair of the Priority Programs sub-committee,  Christiana works with other alumni volunteers to provide valuable advice and perspectives based on the experiences of herself and others, aiming to strengthen connections between alumni and the University.

Christiana’s inspiration to volunteer with Alumni Council stemmed from a desire to both develop her skillset and to create authentic and positive connections with the University for other grads, something she believes can continue to provide a sense of community, belonging, and personal development after graduation. 

Engaging with Alumni Council has provided Christiana the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and break away from the routine of her regular work. Beyond her initial expectations, she appreciates the chance to interact with diverse groups of people she might never have encountered otherwise. Moreover, Christiana was pleasantly surprised when her involvement with the Council led to her reconnecting with someone she hadn't seen in over two decades. Emphasizing the valuable networking aspects, she not only engages with different perspectives but also witnesses the direct and positive impact her contributions have on the University of Alberta's programming. 

Whenever possible, Christiana also volunteers with other programs on campus that interact with students such as U School, or the Unwind Your Mind Snack Handout. Through these activities, she emphasizes the satisfaction of being part of a support network that cares about the well-being of the University community. 

Christiana's advice to potential volunteers is straightforward: if something piques your interest, make the time and sign up. She believes the benefits far outweigh any hesitations or concerns about time commitment. For her, volunteering offers not only the opportunity to give back but also a chance to gain different perspectives, ultimately enriching one's life.

Christiana enjoys running and exploring local coffee shops outside of volunteering and working.