Answering the Call to Connect

When UC's fall semester begins later this month, it will bring a new high-water mark for the university's enrollment. As our 53,000+ students work toward their degrees, they'll discover valuable learning opportunities that complement the world-class education they receive in the classroom. One such experience can be found at the Digital Philanthropy Center (DPC). Each year, 100 student employees build professional skills while helping alumni stay connected to the university they love. Along the way, they gain an early glimpse of what it means to be a Bearcat for Life.

DPC student ambassadors primarily call but also text and email members of the UC community to engage Bearcat to Bearcat. They listen, share what’s happening across the university, update contact information, and offer a friendly opportunity to support UC causes they’re passionate about. Over the last five years, the DPC has facilitated more than 63,000 personalized interactions. These exchanges offer a meaningful way for alumni to reconnect with UC through the lens of a current student. Each connection strengthens the Bearcat community while giving students professional experience, helping fund their education and enhancing their budding résumés. In fact, this year two former student ambassadors earned full-time positions with the UC Foundation after graduation. 

UC’s fundamental promise to our students is to provide a robust training ground for future professional success. The UC Alumni Association and Foundation’s role is to help sustain a vibrant network of alumni and friends in support of the university’s greatest ambitions. The next time you hear from one of our DPC student ambassadors, I hope you'll take a moment to engage. Your conversation will help a student build confidence, sharpen professional skills and share what it's like to be a Bearcat today. It's a simple but impactful way to support students and keep in touch with UC. 

UC and UC Health have launched the Center for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research, uniting medical professionals and researchers to provide patients with access to cutting-edge care and clinical trials.  

Alumni can invest in their professional growth through the new Bearcats Executive Leadership Program. Interactive, three-hour, virtual workshops will explore a variety of critical workplace topics. Browse upcoming sessions and register using code BEARCAT1 to receive 30% off.

The UC men’s basketball team will play Ohio State in a preseason game at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio, on Oct. 7, as part of the CareSource Invitational. The event will raise awareness and funds for mental health. 

When the Cincinnati Reds play the Chicago Cubs on Aug. 29, a proud contingent of UC Chicago alumni will be on hand. Registration for this year’s Bearcats at the Ballpark runs through Aug. 21.

With August being National Make-a-Will Month, Bearcats are encouraged to investigate how a new or updated will can support the UC causes that alumni care about most. 

The Bearcats will make their first trip to Tucson when they play the Arizona Wildcats on Saturday, Oct. 3. Join the UC Alumni Association for the official "Bearcats on the Road" pregame event before the game at Casino Del Sol Stadium.

A pair of UC college golf outings over the next six weeks will raise money for scholarships:

UC football fans are invited to a free event on Aug. 8 featuring a pancake breakfast on Sheakley Lawn, an open practice in Nippert Stadium, and plenty of family-friendly activities.