Alumni Society played first-ever role in the College's third-annual I-Comm week

The College's new Alumni Society hosted a panel forum and roundtable discussions for journalism and library students on Friday, April 7, 2006.

Outstanding CMCIS alumni spoke to students and fellow alumni about the importance of staying connected to the College and also provided helpful hints on interviewing, resume writing and networking.

"The Alumni Society event was an excellent way to allow students to interact with those of us who have been where they are and can offer helpful advice. I truly enjoyed being a part of the panel and speaking with the students in the roundtable setting, said alumna Talyse Krolewicz, public relations director for LRADAC. She added, "I believe the Alumni Society provides a much-needed connection between the College and its graduates, and will help facilitate better communication and interaction to help both the College and its alumni experience greater success."

The panel session was moderated by alumnus Kenneth Moton, reporter for News 14 Carolina. Moton recently represented the "real USC" on the Feb. 24 taping of "The Price Is Right." Don't worry, he brought his shirt to prove it and shared his excitement from this experience.

When asked about his thoughts on this Alumni Society event, Moton said, "It's refreshing to know that my alma mater is recognizing how important it is to utilize its alumni, especially when it comes to educating current students. I thoroughly enjoyed moderating this panel discussion organized by our vibrant and new Alumni Society."

Alumni joining Moton on the panel included Allison Aiken, assistant account executive for Trellis Communications, Rachel Beanland, public relations manager for Riverbanks Zoo, Talyse Krolewicz, public relations director for LRADAC, Laura "Gypsye" Legge, Library School graduate, Geoff LoCicero, web communications director for USC and Virginia Wallace, clinical instructor for USC.

Leading roundtables were Russell Altman, director of library resources and research for Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A., Karen Brown, reference librarian for USC, Jack Bryan, retired director of administration for the SC Attorney General's Office, Jessica Felker, media specialist for Newberry Middle School, Chris Hanclosky, graphic artist for Anchor Sign, Caroline Hipp, chief of extension services for Richland County Public Library, Sig Huitt, managing principal and founder for Carolina Public Relations, Gail King, media specialist for Killian Elementary and Jason Rapp, communications director and audience sales manager for the SC Philharmonic. Aiken, Legge, LoCicero, Moton, Krolewicz and Wallace also led roundtables after speaking on the panel.

"Since I have a journalism background and a library science degree, it's nice to be able to cross over and talk to alumni and students on both sides of the College. It's a good way to network and make contacts," said Geoff LoCicero. LoCicero also had something to say to our students. He said, "I would encourage students to take advantage of opportunities like this. Unfortunately, students generally tend to think an event like this is a waste of their time or is deadly dull, but I think we showed that it's just the opposite: a valuable resource with lively dialogue."

Contact Elaine Taylor at etaylor@sc.edu if you are interested in getting involved in the Alumni Society.