National Volunteers Week: alumni and supporter volunteering wrapped

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Over the past year, more than 3,000 volunteers have generously contributed over 7,000 hours of their time to support the University of Liverpool. Their involvement has had a tangible impact across the University’s global reputation, the student experience and employability, and student recruitment – demonstrating the powerful role volunteers play in shaping our community and future.

Supporting student success and employability

Alumni volunteering has a massive impact on the student experience and employability. Mentoring programmes offer tailored advice, real-world insight, and professional encouragement that helps student build confidence and secure work experience.

  • Over 150 alumni and supporters are now part of LivUni Mentors, sharing guidance and personal experience.
  • Over 100 volunteers contribute to the School of Law’s Professional Mentoring Programme, described by students as “an amazing opportunity” to prepare for their careers.
  • 50 alumni mentors joined the newly introduced Management School Undergraduate Mentoring Programme, with students crediting mentors as “being the reason” they secured placements.

These contributions not only enrich student learning but strengthen the bridge between education and industry.

Volunteers also support recent graduates in taking their next steps.

  • More than 10 alumni volunteered as guest speakers at recent graduate events in London and Liverpool, generously sharing their career journeys and professional insights.
  • Our Bringing the World to Liverpool series was reimagined this year to spotlight young alumni voices, with 6 recent graduates leading panel talks to foster a sense of community among our newest alumni.

These online and in-person volunteer opportunities inspire recent graduates to get involved, demonstrating the ripple effect of peer-to-peer engagement.

Supporting student recruitment

Alumni volunteers play a vital role in helping the University attract talented students of the future.

  • Over 200 alumni and supporters of the School of Medicine took part in Admissions Interviews, welcoming the next generation of doctors.
  • Nearly 50 volunteers supported the School of Veterinary Science through Admissions Interviews, showing their ongoing commitment to the School that set them up for their profession.

Building alumni communities

University of Liverpool Alumni Associations are led by committed alumni volunteers who foster connection and celebrate community.

  • The Veterinary Alumni Association hosted 135 alumni at the School of Veterinary Science 120th Anniversary Celebration Ball.
  • They also provided funding to 12 student societies, ensuring the wellbeing and community sprit of the current veterinary science students.

As well as the Associations, we are proud to have vibrant international alumni communities, supported by teams of dedicated Alumni Ambassadors.

  • We have active Alumni Networks in more than 13 countries.
  • The Nigeria Alumni Network celebrated their 10-year anniversary this year – a thriving, nationwide community of professionals, leaders, and change-makers.

Through mentoring, networking and shared celebration, our international alumni volunteers continue to embody the University’s global spirit and lasting impact.

Reconnecting through Reunions

Reunion organisers are at the heart of events that celebrate shared history and friendships. These volunteers dedicate time and energy to bring classmates together and strengthen lifelong bonds.

  • Since June 2024, reunion organisers have hosted more than 10 reunions, including milestone gatherings for Medicine graduates from 1971 and 1985 and the long-running annual reunion of Physics graduates known as the ‘Sloman Loungers’.

These events not only rekindle old friendships but reinforce lasting connections between alumni and the University.

Sharing messages of encouragement

Throughout the year, alumni and supporters have also come together in collective moments of encouragement, demonstrating the powerful sense of community that defines the University.

These messages of support have uplifted and inspired students and recent graduates during key moments in their University journey:

  • Nearly 70 alumni and supporters contributed messages for Welcome Week, helping new students feel at home from day one.
  • More than 50 alumni congratulated the Class of 2024, offering advice and encouragement as the newest alumni joined the ranks.
  • Over 50 messages were shared as part of our Random Acts of Kindness campaign, providing thoughtful words during challenging moments.

Even these small gestures can have a lasting impact, showing that alumni support comes in many forms and continues to shape the Liverpool journey long after graduation.

Thank you!

Thank you to all our 3,000+ volunteers for the time, energy, and expertise you’ve shared this year. Your support has shaped student experiences, strengthened alumni communities, and helped make the University of Liverpool what it is today. We couldn’t do it without you.

Are you looking for more ways to get involved? Find out more about volunteer opportunities.