Affinity groups bring together UM alumni and friends with common interests, experiences and/or backgrounds, strengthening their ties to each other and the University.

These groups connect and celebrate UM’s diversity in many ways, including supporting our former students and hosting reunions, events and activities that reflect positively on UM.

Affinity groups are valuable to the University, UMAA and alumni because they provide additional ways to connect outside the typical scope of regional programs or reunions.

Funding for Affinity Groups

UMAA offers an application process to ensure transparency, accountability and strategic alignment in allocating event funding. By requiring affinity groups to submit detailed applications, we aim to promote fairness and equity in the distribution of resources. This approach enables UMAA to assess the potential impact and feasibility of proposed events, ensuring that funded activities align with the mission and values of UMAA and meet the diverse needs of our alumni community.

The affinity group sub-committee of the UMAA Board of Directors will review applications quarterly and award up to $500 annually, per affinity group. To meet these rolling dates, applications must be submitted at least 120 days before the event is scheduled to take place.

Alumni Affinity Group Funding Application Process

Step 1: Application Submission

• Alumni affinity groups interested in applying for funding for alumni events must complete and submit the official application form provided by UMAA.

Step 2: Review Process

• Applications will be reviewed quarterly. The affinity group sub-committee will review all completed applications and evaluate them based on criteria such as:
  • Alignment with the mission and purpose of the UM Alumni Association
  • Potential impact on the Alumni community
  • Creativity and innovation of the proposed event(s)
  • Past performance and track record of the affinity group (if applicable)
• The affinity group sub-committee may request additional information or clarification from applicants during the review process if needed.

Step 3: Notification

• After reviewing all applications, the affinity group sub-committee will notify each affinity group of the decision regarding their funding request.
• Affinity groups whose funding requests are approved will receive notification of the approved amount and any conditions or requirements associated with the funding.
• Affinity groups whose funding requests are denied will receive feedback from the affinity group sub-committee explaining the reasons for the decision and suggestions for improvement (if applicable). 

Step 4: Funding Information

• Upon approval, UMAA will be in contact with your group to work through funding details.
• Funds should be used exclusively for the purpose outlined in the approved application and per any conditions or requirements specified by UMAA.

 Step 5: Event Execution and Reporting

• Affinity groups are responsible for organizing and executing the proposed event(s) per the approved timeline.
• After the event(s) have concluded, affinity groups may be required to submit a post-event report to UMAA, including:
  • Attendance numbers and demographic information of participants
  • Feedback from attendees
  • Any notable successes, challenges or lessons learned from the event(s)

Step 6: Follow-up and Evaluation

• UMAA may conduct follow-up discussions or evaluations with affinity groups to assess the impact and effectiveness of funded events.
• Feedback from funded events will inform future funding decisions and support continuous improvement in alumni engagement efforts.

By following these steps, alumni affinity groups can effectively apply for funding for various alumni events and contribute to the enrichment of the alumni community.

Thank you for your interest in UMAA’s Affinity Group program. UMAA is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for our alumni and affinity groups.