Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know Lindsay Vahl, associate director of Alumni Relations-Chicago outreach.

As associate director for Alumni Relations in Chicago, what do you do?

Everything related to alumni in Chicago! My primary responsibilities are developing, managing, and serving as a liaison for alumni volunteers including groups such as the Chicago Young Alumni Network, Black Colleagues Association, Latin@ Alumni Network, and the Chicago Suburban Alumni Network. I also organize and implement various events and outings for alumni to reconnect and engage with Illinois State from afar. When I describe what I do, people ask if I actually work and the answer is yes! But I have to tell you, I probably have one of the best jobs on campus.

How long have you been an employee at ISU?

I’m just shy of 11 years! I remember committing to work at the University for only one year after graduation. I spent the first seven and a half years in the Office of Admissions and have been in my current position for the past three and a half  years. Time surely flies.

What do you love most about working at ISU?

The people and the relationships are what I appreciate most. I have great colleagues around campus. The students are stellar and continue to amaze me. It’s fulfilling to see them earn their degrees! And I love to hear alumni reminisce about their experiences of when they were students and how much campus has changed.

What is one fact about yourself that might surprise people?

I play in a co-ed flag football league on the south side of Chicago. It does get a little rough out there at times.

When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?

Right now, I am working on my comprehensive exam for the doctoral program in Educational Administration and Foundations-Higher Education Administration. You can also find me working out a few days a week, traveling, and hanging with family and friends. If only there were a few more hours in a day!

What is your favorite spot on campus?

Besides my office that looks over Millennium Park? I would have to say the top of Watterson is probably one of my favorite spots because the views of campus and the community are beautiful. I remember going to the top of Watterson when the White Sox won the World Series and watched the quad flood with people celebrating. Good times!

Who was your favorite teacher/professor in school, and how did he/she impact you?

Phyllis McCluskey-Titus would be one of my favorite professors at Illinois State. I first met her about 10 years ago when pursuing my master’s degree in college student personnel administration. Dr. Phyllis has really challenged me to be a better professional. She keeps me on my toes and has been a great mentor and motivator even through some very challenging times.