In lieu of super-sized events that are proving to be both challenging and infrequent I propose a new format: Dinner with _____ .
‘Dinner with ____’ would be an informal gathering that is anchored by a notable alum whereupon they would pick a day, place and time to meet for dinner (but could be anything, dining is just an example) and the first five or seven alumni that sign up get to join them. For the event itself, everyone will be on their own for paying for food, drink, etc. (eliminating our cost and location constraints).
The time together can cover whatever topics the notable alum wants to address, e.g. career story, industry insight or hot topics, leadership, entrepreneurship, etc. with the goal to have more small group ‘high touch’ interactions between a cross section of alumni throughout the year.
To avoid the traps of exactly who is notable or defining what constitutes notability lets keep this simple. If you would like to attend, let me know who from our talented and diverse alumni you would love to see across the table or join for a small group gathering. If you would like to share your story as a notable alum, let me know and we’ll coordinate the details for you to pick the day/time/place that works best for you.
Don’t be shy – many of you have great stories, insights and experiences to share !!
Darden Chicago Alumni 