In addition to the well-established network of HBS clubs in cities all over the world, a fairly recent development is the growing number of associations that have been formed around alumni interests. Over the past few years, two of these groups — the HBS Alumni Association for Technology Industries and the HBS Health Industry Alumni Association — have established organizations to bring alumni together and provide the opportunity to share and discuss important information on industry-related issues.

Bunny Ellerin (MBA '95), founder and president of the HBS Health Industry Alumni Association, recognized the need for such an organization in 1999. "I wanted to provide smart people in the health-care industry with a way to come together and educate each other on current developments in the field," she says. "By bringing this group together, we've created a global network of HBS alumni who are able to interact and exchange ideas on all aspects of their industry." The club has sponsored a wide array of events, including local programs around the country featuring prominent health-care leaders and an annual alumni health-care conference, which will be held on campus November 16–17. Additionally, members receive weekly e-mail updates and have access to a club Web site offering a searchable membership directory and an up-to-date job board. The use of technology integrated with club events aims to create significant alumni interaction and communication, and Ellerin says she is still amazed by how people have embraced the club.

Allegra J. Young (MBA '95), founder and president of the HBS Alumni Association for Technology Industries, agrees that industry-specific clubs are of great value to the School's graduates. "Alumni are eager to communicate with each other and discuss pressing issues in their industry," she says. "Whether they're sharing business development information or career transition information, these graduates are connecting with each other in ways they haven't before." Web chats, e-groups, and teleconferences provide organized forums for discussion, and the Technology Industries association anticipates offering two or three of these events a month. Established last January, the club is already two hundred members strong and has high hopes for success. "We want to create a user-friendly network for HBS alumni in technology industries. We feel lucky to have the volunteer labor of a great steering committee and board to help us reach this goal," comments Young.

In addition to connecting alumni with each other, both clubs help foster a better relationship between alumni and the School. "Several graduates have told me that the club has rekindled a sense of school spirit and pride," states Ellerin. Positive new experiences combined with fond memories have strengthened support for the School and created new bonds between alumni and current students. Informing students of job opportunities and including them in local events allow the clubs to keep in touch with HBS and provides members with a sense of satisfaction.

Future goals for both clubs are similar: to offer their members topical industry-related events, to promote club awareness, and to increase membership. "We've received so much positive feedback," says Young, "that we want to build on the momentum." Members have repeatedly reported the value of club events and are grateful for the efforts of Ellerin and Young, who have both worked hard to develop these thriving organizations.

In addition to the Alumni Association for Technology Industries and the Health Industry Alumni Association, a number of other HBS alumni associations exist. These include the African-American Alumni Association, the Association of Gay and Lesbian Alumni, the Christian Fellowship Alumni Association, the Supply Chain Management Alumni Association, the Social Enterprise Alumni Association, Women's Alumnae Networks, and OPM Associations. Contact information for each club can be found at http://www.alumni.hbs.edu/clubs.

— Elena N. Berg

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