In a special initiative, several alumni have offered to sponsor individual National University students for fully paid attendance at Homecoming 2013.  The sponsorships give students the opportunity to attend the full roster of Homecoming events, including continuing education classes, meals and social activities. Sponsored students also have the chance to build relationships with their alumni sponsors for mentorship and career networking.

“This program started three years ago, and interest has grown,” says Ms. Shawna McDonough, director of alumni and development for National University.  “We’ve had more sponsors join the program, and have been able to increase the number of students we send to Homecoming each year.”

Last year, current student Denise Shostek enjoyed her attendance at Homecoming through the generosity of her sponsor. “It provided excellent exposure to quality speakers, interactions with alumni, and a perspective of the school that I did not have before.”

Student Rachel Klein enjoyed the opportunity to attend the continuing education seminars in massage therapy last year, thanks to her sponsor. “The massage therapy topic was ‘the side-lying advantage’ and it was a phenomenal learning experience. It’s very helpful when working with those who are pregnant. I feel very fortunate and grateful that I was able to attend such an excellent seminar as well as joining in the alumni celebrations.”

Interested students from professional degree programs or the massage therapy program can enter the lottery for sponsorship by filling out and submitting forms that are available in the administrative office. The deadline for entry is May 10^th. Alumni interested in sponsoring a student for Homecoming may call 630-889-6701 for details.