Strengthening Connections: How Okanagan College Alumni Association Empowers Graduates

_{This article is sponsored by ATB Wealth.}

In this episode of Community Spotlight, brought to you by ATB Wealth, host Rob Cupello is joined by key members of the Okanagan College Alumni Association: President Zach Webster, Vice President Domenic Rampone, and Past President Kara Kazimer. Together, they explore the crucial role alumni networks play in supporting students, graduates, and businesses in the Okanagan region.

The conversation starts with each guest sharing their personal connections to Okanagan College. Kara, who graduated in 1999 from the first-ever Bachelor of Business Administration program at the college, has been involved with the Alumni Association since 2001. Her passion for the education she received and the value of alumni in the community is a driving force behind her dedication.

Zach, a proud Okanagan College graduate, credits the institution for transforming his life and providing him with a quality education that propelled his career. He describes his involvement with the Alumni Association as an opportunity to bring that same positive experience back to the community. "The alumni are all over the Okanagan, and I want to bring the same feeling that I got from the institution into the community," Zach says.

Domenic, who graduated in 1976, reminisces about the early days at Okanagan College when the campus was just beginning to grow. He speaks highly of the many alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in the region, from welding programs to business and engineering fields. He emphasizes the importance of connecting students with businesses and opportunities.

When it comes to supporting new graduates, the Alumni Association offers a variety of resources, including exclusive events, networking opportunities, and valuable benefits like insurance discounts. “Our goal is to create connections that work for the alumni,” Zach explains, urging recent graduates to reach out to the association for support.

The association also highlights the importance of mentorship, with opportunities for alumni to engage in meaningful connections. A recent initiative, the OC Works program, celebrates businesses with a number of alumni employees and connects them with the broader alumni network. It’s just one example of how the Alumni Association fosters a sense of belonging for graduates, regardless of when they graduated or where they are now.

As the conversation continues, the guests emphasize how the Okanagan College experience continues to shape the community. Whether through the business, culinary, or trades programs, Okanagan College has consistently produced graduates who go on to become leaders in their fields. From a non-profit helping sterilize medical devices in third-world countries to CEOs of major companies, alumni are making a lasting impact.

For alumni living outside the area, staying connected is easier than ever. The association offers a newsletter, social media connections, and even virtual meetings. “The technology is here,” says Kara, “Distance is no longer a barrier to staying involved.” Whether it’s through local events or virtual meetups, alumni are encouraged to stay connected and continue contributing to the community.

In closing, the guests remind us that being an alumnus of Okanagan College is not just about receiving an education—it’s about being part of a larger, supportive community that continues to grow and evolve. Whether you’re a recent graduate or someone who’s been away for years, the Alumni Association offers a way to stay engaged, celebrate successes, and contribute to future generations.

To connect with the Okanagan College Alumni Association and get involved, visit the website or reach out via email at alumni@okanagan.bc.ca.