SNHU Alumni Group Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide

The day you receive your diploma from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) marks a significant achievement, but it also signifies the beginning of your journey as an alumnus, with access to a wide array of resources and benefits. Being an alum means you've earned a credential, and in specific cases, loyal supporters who aren't graduates may be designated as "honorary alums." This article delves into the various advantages and opportunities available to SNHU alumni, highlighting how you can stay connected, give back, and continue to grow both personally and professionally.

Staying Connected: The Alumni Association and Network

Upon graduation, you automatically become a member of the SNHU Alumni Association, a community designed to bring former students together. This association offers numerous benefits, primarily the chance to stay engaged with the university and help others. The alumni network connects you with professional contacts and fellow alumni across diverse industries and interests. Alumni associations should be a place where alumni can come together to give back and become leaders within their local communities.

The Power of Networking

The alumni network can be incredibly beneficial, offering opportunities to build your brand, create business connections, and get involved in other organizations. Alumni are eager to share their experiences and support the success of others. Many alumni return to campus to recruit students, showcasing the network's commitment to fostering the next generation of professionals.

Elizabeth St. Jean ’15 '23MBA, director of people strategic initiatives at SNHU, emphasizes the value of these connections, stating, “I have had the best conversations with alumni that have helped me talk through career moves, life changes and so much more."

Mentorship and Guidance

Beyond making connections, the alumni network serves as a valuable resource for mentorship and guidance. Experienced alumni can offer insights into navigating career challenges, exploring new opportunities, and achieving personal growth. Bryan Bouchard '01 '04MBA, an assistant professor of accounting at SNHU, highlights the importance of this shared experience: “Knowing that there are so many others who have shared in similar experiences is important."

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Giving Back: Contributing to the SNHU Community

An essential aspect of being an alum is finding ways to give back to the university. There are numerous avenues for engagement, including speaking to classes, mentoring students, hiring students, offering internships, and attending athletic events. Sharing your knowledge and experiences can significantly impact current and future students, shaping their educational journey and professional development.

Shaping Future Generations

As an alum, you possess firsthand knowledge of the education and valuable life lessons gained from the university experience. Using this knowledge to support current and future students is crucial. St. Jean emphasizes the importance of alumni support: “Every student deserves the opportunity to connect, and I believe it is our duty as alumni to support and mentor students to help them be the best they can be at any stage in their learning journey.”

What Makes a Good Alum?

According to Grijalva, “I think a good alumnus is someone who is willing and energized about giving back to the university through its faculty, students and fellow alumni." Bouchard echoes this sentiment, stating that “Being involved and showing support. That is all it takes."

Resources and Benefits: Leveraging Your Alumni Status

SNHU is committed to the continued success of its alumni, offering a range of resources and benefits to support their academic, professional, and financial well-being.

Academic Resources

Alumni can request official transcripts through the National Student Clearinghouse, SNHU's third-party vendor. Replacement diplomas can also be ordered through Parchment.

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Financial Support and Guidance

SNHU partners with Student Connections, a nonprofit organization, to provide effective federal student loan repayment solutions and strategies. This partnership aims to assist alumni in managing their student loan repayment effectively.

Insurance Benefits

SNHU alumni have access to a variety of insurance options, including:

Life Insurance: With coverage options up to \$3 million, offering choices tailored to individual needs. Some plans may not require a medical exam, and benefits can include a percentage of coverage in the event of a terminal illness diagnosis. The Alumni Insurance Program offers three different term life insurance plans.
Health Insurance: Individual and family health insurance plans are available through the eHealth Marketplace, allowing alumni to compare coverage and choose healthcare options that fit their budget.
Auto & Home Insurance: Exclusive savings on quality insurance plans are available through partnerships with Liberty Mutual and Farmers Insurance Choice.
Travel Insurance: Coverage for trip cancellation, baggage loss, and other travel-related issues is available to protect your travel investments.
Long Term Disability Insurance: Provides a monthly benefit if your ability to earn an income is interrupted by a covered injury or illness.

These insurance benefits often come with member-only rates, lower premiums, and convenient plan choices, providing coverage not available to the general public.

Travel and Entertainment Discounts

Alumni can take advantage of discounts at major car rental and hotel chains, making travel more affordable. Additionally, SNHU community members receive discounts to various theme parks, including Canobie Lake Park, all Six Flags locations, Disney, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens.

Event Space Discounts

Alumni receive a 15% discount on rental space when hosting special events at SNHU. Conference and Events Services can accommodate events during the day or at night, as well as on weekends.

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The Active Citizen Network (ACN)

The Active Citizen Network (ACN) is a civic society of SNHU alumni who made community service an integral part of their education and continue to commit themselves to being active and involved citizens. As part of the ACN, you'll be among civic-minded alumni, learning from, networking with, and growing within the SNHU community. This network enhances your ability to make a greater and stronger impact in the communities where you work and live.

Joining the ACN

To join the ACN, you are encouraged to fill out an application. The Chandler Center staff members review all applications.

The Chandler Center's Vision

The Chandler Center envisions a campus where all students are civically engaged and committed to social action. Created in 2005, the Center's fundamental purpose is to engage and empower students to be active citizens.

Staying Informed: Keeping Your Contact Information Up-to-Date

Dupuis encourages alumni to ensure their contact information is up-to-date with the alumni office to receive updates on the latest events, volunteering, and networking opportunities.

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