DI Alumni Network Mixer a Success

October 30, 2019 | Alumni News

DI graduates gathered for for a photo at local distillery Cutwater Spirits
Alumni who attended the meeting gathered for a photo

A great group of Design Institute of San Diego graduates gathered at Cutwater Spirits on October 3rd for the 2019 Alumni Network Mixer. Graduates from the class of 1998 through 2019 came together for an evening of networking and mingling. They enjoyed tasty bites and equally tasty beverages and also took advantage of a tour of the distillery.

DI graduate Chelsea Metheny, class of 2018, speaks in front of fellow alumni and staff members, encouraging others to join the first Alumni Network Committee
Graduate Chelsea Metheny speaks to the crowd

Graduate Chelsea Metheny from the Class of 2018 spoke to the group briefly about the formation of the Alumni Network Committee. As the designated President of the first committee, Chelsea spoke about the importance of staying connected after graduation and the value of being a part of the Alumni Network. “As alumni, we are invaluable to each other. We hope events like this can be used for networking, mentorship, and fellowship,” shared Chelsea during her speech.

A shot of attendees watching Chelsea Metheny speak
Alumni listening to Chelsea talk about the Alumni Network Committee

Besides future networking events, Chelsea shared plans of supporting our graduates with more CEU’s and creating scholarships in the future honoring the legacy of past students, alumni, faculty, and staff who are no longer with us. “Participating in non-profit organizations is another goal,” says Chelsea.

Five women including 4 alumna and the school's financial aid director, pose for a photo at their table
From L-R: Alumna Cynthia Ryan, Financial Aid Director Jackie Gloria, Alumna Amber Style, Alumna Gina Florentino and Alumna Alynn Etzler

Sign-up sheets were available for alumni who were interested in joining Chelsea on the committee. Committee roles that were open include Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Communications Officer, and Events Coordinator.

Six alumni smile and pose for a photo at their table
DI graduates from L-R: Jaki Yermian, Breeann Ray, Martin Grady, Ginet Casido, Kate Davenport and Katrina Shea

Alumni were encouraged to bring their business cards and other marketing materials or projects to share with the group. Many graduates found opportunities to collaborate on future endeavors.

Three DI graduates caught laughing and smiling in a candid photo
All smiles: Our graduates had a great time catching up and networking

Chelsea will be working with the DI administration on the next steps of forming the rest of the committee. They will also be working together to plan events for the spring semester. There is a series of Lunch and Learns scheduled this semester with one more coming up in November that our graduates are encouraged to register for.