Today@Sam Article
SHSU Alumni Association Ranks High in HBJ Report
July 25, 2019
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti
The Sam Houston State University Alumni Association is the second largest Houston-area paid membership alumni group according to the Houston Business Journal’s June report.
The publication’s data also shows that of the top six associations listed in the ranking, SHSU’s base membership fee is the lowest cost, at only $35 to join.
With currently 60,626 SHSU alumni in Houston and 5,400 members of the alumni association there, the university is focused on keeping Bearkats easily connected to their alma mater. According to Charlie Vienne associate vice president for Alumni Relations, the Alumni Association host numerous events and activities throughout the year in the greater Houston area to engage and connect with alumni.
“Some of the more popular events include SHSU Night at Minute Maid Park, SHSU Night with the Houston Rockets, SHSU Day at the Races for the Kentucky Derby, SHSU theatre night at the Hobby Center, and the annual Life Member Dinner & Celebration, just to name a few,” Vienne said. “In addition, the association manages seven alumni clubs around the greater Houston region. These clubs are active in hosting activities and events specific to their area and participate in numerous community service projects throughout the year.”
While Vienne and others from the Alumni Association are always eager to host events in Houston, the organization has also made it much easier for members to stop by for visits in Huntsville. This summer, the association moved a few blocks north to the new John R. Ragsdale Alumni Center located at 1605 Sam Houston Ave. 
Due to the continued growth, SHSU’s Visitor Center and Alumni Center are now housed in two separate facilities. The newly remodeled John R. Ragsdale Alumni Center provides more space to the association’s significant membership progress and offers convenient parking accessibility to members visiting the center.
“We welcome all Bearkats to come see our new center and for those considering joining the association, we have many great benefits to offer,” Vienne said. “A Sam Houston State Alumni Association membership provides an opportunity to rekindle and strengthen connections made during your college years. Most importantly, alumni involvement advances the university by allowing us to expand and improve programs and services.”
Contact the Office of Alumni Relations directly at 936-294-1841 for more information about the advantages of membership.
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