50 Days to 50 Years: Day 41, CAAN Connect!
"Respect for people is the cornerstone of communication and networking." — Susan Roane
A fabulous time was had by all at the 2016 CAAN Connect! The West Coast chapter of Columbia College Chicago's alumni association has held this networking event for years, and it has always been rewarding and enjoyable for the attendees. West Coast Director Sarah Schroeder, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations Chuck Lira, and Coordinator of Special Events Amanda Clayton did a lovely job setting the space with awesome catering (with a bar!), and a spacious setup where alumni and entertainment industry executives could conduct their 15-minute speed networking sessions.
My role as an alumni board representative was to help out at the check-in desk and interact with the alumni to ensure they were having a pleasant and productive experience. Interacting with the other alumni gave me insight into what an impact this type of event can have on one's confidence and career, and how much the work of an alumni association can impact both. Alumna Abby Sherman (BA '79) said, "I have to say, Columbia really steps up for its alumni." [gallery ids="2135,2136,2137,2138,2139" type="rectangular"] He shoots, he scores! Rim shot. I felt quite proud in seeing part of the vision of the alumni board coming to life and being affirmed by the very alumni we seek to serve. Speaking of pride, Hallie McPhee-Johnston, another alumni said, ""I'm proud to be a part of Columbia. I really care about our school, and what we do to help each other move forward. This event was great! I made a lot of contacts, and I have a lot of work to do to get things out to people; but I am very pleased." I encouraged Hallie to apply for the 2016-17 national board—I hope she does! My other role as just another alumni coming to network was also satisfying. I met this great husband and wife writing team, Anastasia and Joshua Basche, who I suspect will be the next Robert and Michelle King (The Good Wife, Braindead). We had a fascinating conversation about the Chewbaca mom and her viral video, and discussed actual artistic effort versus socially-driven content. We exchanged cards and I look forward to getting together with them soon. My pitch materials were a big hit! One executive said they were very professional, and felt it represented who I am and what I had to offer. Another executive from a literary management agency was disgusted that my last literary agency told me that they had to drop me because I didn't have a platform. She complimented me on the fact that I took the dishonest feedback and did something with it: I now have a platform that cannot be denied! All in all, I received solid information and direction from each one, and can incorporate or move forward because of it. The evening ended with a delightful conversation and a failed attempt at using Facebook Live! with Lydia Rodriguez ('07) and Roberta De'Mesme ('90). These women met at work and found out they both attended Columbia. Not only is their friendship delightful, but they are encouraging each other in moving back towards creative endeavors. That's what networking is all about: sharing knowledge, opportunity, and encouraging each other in our goals and strengths. I look forward to seeing Lydia and Roberta's podcast come to life and go viral. I let them know I would be honored to be a guest one day.