Linfield University is strengthening the connection between students and the professional networks that support their careers. Effective July 1, the Office of Career and Life Design will join University Advancement.
The change creates new opportunities to connect students with alumni, employers and community partners. These relationships play an essential role in career readiness and post-graduation success.
The move reflects Linfield’s commitment to helping students turn their education into meaningful careers. It also deepens engagement opportunities for alumni who want to support the next generation of Wildcats.
“One of Linfield’s greatest strengths is the lifelong community that surrounds our students,” President Mark Blegen said. “Our alumni are mentors, employers, innovators and leaders in their fields. By bringing Career and Life Design into University Advancement, we are creating even more opportunities for students to learn from and connect with those who have walked the same paths before them.”
Career and Life Design helps students explore career options, build professional skills, secure internships and prepare for life after graduation. The new alignment will strengthen connections with alumni and employers. It will also expand opportunities for mentorship, networking, job shadowing and experiential learning.
The transition supports Linfield’s vision of connecting the student experience with a lifelong relationship to the university.
Expanding opportunities for alumni engagement
For alumni, the change creates new ways to share expertise and make a meaningful impact on students’ futures. Whether through mentoring, hosting interns, participating in career panels, offering job opportunities or serving as industry advisors, Wildcats will have more opportunities to help students navigate the transition from college to career.
“Many of our alumni tell us they want to give back in ways that directly impact students,” said Joseph Hunter, vice president for university advancement. “This alignment creates a stronger framework for those connections and helps ensure that students benefit from the experience, knowledge and generosity of the Linfield network.”
Linfield’s alumni community spans industries, professions and geographic regions across the world. Bringing career development and alumni engagement into closer partnership will strengthen support for students before graduation. It will also foster deeper connections to Linfield long after they leave campus.
We are creating even more opportunities for students to learn from and connect with those who have walked the same paths before them.”
– President Mark Blegen
Alumni interested in mentoring students, providing internships, participating in career programs or sharing professional expertise are encouraged to contact Linfield’s Career and Life Design at career@linfield.edu.
