Missouri Southern has welcomed Abi Almandinger as the new Director of Alumni and Donor Relations, a role focused on strengthening ties between the university, its graduates, and its supporters.
In her new position, Almandinger is responsible for creating meaningful experiences that engage alumni and donors while recognizing their continued contributions to the university.
“As the new Director of Alumni and Donor Relations, I am responsible for creating experiences for our alumni to show appreciation for their contributions to the university as well as engaging new alumni,” she said.
Although she is still getting familiar with the university’s programs, Almandinger is focused on listening, learning, and evaluating how current initiatives support students and alumni.
“As I learn more about the programs we have, I want to listen and see what kinds of events we offer,” she explained. “Then I’ll be able to determine if we need to tweak some things.”
Alumni and donor involvement, she noted, has a direct impact on current students, particularly through scholarships.
“Some of our biggest benefits are through scholarships for our students,” Almandinger said. “This is so impactful, as otherwise it’s possible that some of our students wouldn’t have the opportunity to attend MSSU.”
While she has only been in the role for a short time, Almandinger is already inspired by what she has learned. “The stories I’ve heard in the first week I’ve been here are remarkable,” she said referring to examples of how alumni and donor’s generosity has transformed student’s lives.”
Moving forward, Almandinger encourages current students to begin forming connections early. “One of the best ways is to get involved with alumni events or mentorship programs organized by the university,” she suggested. “Another great approach is to stay active in student organizations or projects that attract alumni engagement which creates natural points of connection.”
She also emphasizes the importance of understanding how alumni and donor contributions shape student success. “Scholarships, updated facilities, research opportunities, and many campus programs exist because of their generosity,” she said. “Recognizing that support helps students appreciate the broader community that invests in their success.”
One of the upcoming projects Almandinger is most excited about is the Scholarship Dinner, an annual event that celebrates both donors and student scholarships awardees.
Her message to the MSSU community is one of connection and consistency. “Staying connected after graduation keeps the spirit of Lion Pride alive,” Almandinger said. “Our connection to MSSU doesn’t end when we earn our degree, it evolves. By staying involved, whether through mentoring, attending events, or supporting programs, alumni strengthen the network that once supported them.”
For Almandinger, each relationship between alumni, donors, and students contributes to a larger story of growth and gratitude. “It’s about celebrating shared experiences giving back to the community that shaped us, and continuing to make MSSU stronger for future generations,” she said.
For Almandinger, the heart of MSSU is the community that never stops giving back.