The AIA logo presents four swallows moving into the four cardinal directions radiating from the center of the world, which is a universal concept for most tribal societies. The swallows are found all over America and are commonly known for returning to their nesting place; this is especially appropriate for the American Indian alumni returning to campus for reunions, alumni events, and other ativities.
American Indian Alumni Club

 

About AIA

September 29, 2008

Dear American Indian Alumni,

We have been working with the Arizona Alumni Association to identify a new leadership structure for the American Indian Alumni (AIA) Club. The organization has struggled over the last few years to fulfill its mission, particularly with increasing its membership and fundraising for student scholarships. The newly assumed leadership is committed to helping the organization regain momentum and to become a strong and viable organization that will engage our increasing alumni base so that we can continue the tradition of “giving back to the next generation of UA students.”

The new leadership structure consists of representatives from three departments: President’s Office, Native American Student Affairs, and the American Indian Alumni Club, who are referred to as the AIA Advisory Members. At this time Amanda Tachine, Interim Director for Native American Student Affairs and I, are the leaders for AIA working in partnership with the Arizona Alumni Association. Should you have recommendations on how we can best serve your interests as alums, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We have already begun plans for the AIA Club 2008 homecoming reunion events. (Click on our homecoming link for more information.) We also are working on some infrastructure changes such as updating the website and preparing fiscal reports of our operation and scholarship funds.

We have a lot of work ahead of us and we hope you will assist us in not only this important leadership transition, but to be active and involved as an AIA member. There are many leadership opportunities with the organization and we welcome your ideas and involvement.

We want to take this opportunity to thank you for your contributions to the AIA Club and the Arizona Alumni Association. We look forward to your continued support! GO CATS!

Sincerely,

Karen Francis-Begay
Special Advisor to the President on Native American Affairs
The University of Arizona
kfbegay@email.arizona.edu
520-626-9809, office

Amanda Tachine
Interim Director, Native American Student Affairs
The University of Arizona
atachine@email.arizona.edu
520-626-8191, office

 

 

AIA Mission

To support American Indian Alumni of The University of Arizona (UA) by providing networking opportunities, serving as a liaison between the University and our alumni membership, and by recognizing personal and professional achievement of our membership. In addition, AIA supports American Indian students at the UA through mentorship, community service and the provision of scholarship opportunities.