Jean Keefe Parry ’70 has been named director of alumni programs for Occidental College. As an alumna and a former Occidental alumni director (1976-1983), she brings an invaluable familiarity with the campus, alumni, and parents to the position. She will begin December 1.
Parry previously worked for non-profits and in alumni, development, and community affairs, holding positions at Art Center College of Design, the J. Paul Getty Museum, Dominican University, and Golden Gate University. Most recently, she worked as the volunteer coordinator for Ganna Walksa Lotusland in Santa Barbara.
"Decades of Oxy alumni are delighted that Jean is returning to her alma mater in this exciting new role," said Carl Botterud, executive director of alumni relations and general counsel at Occidental. "Jean's extensive experience in institutional advancement and alumni affairs will make her -- once again -- an enormously valuable member of the alumni relations team. Her presence in the new Samuelson Alumni Center will bring a sense of style and fun to our new alumni home, where her creativity and innovative spirit will contribute to an ambitious program for alumni of all ages."
Parry has extensive experience recruiting, organizing, and managing volunteers and programs in support of the mission of private colleges and museums. As vice president of community and alumni affairs at Art Center in Pasadena, Parry managed over 30 community outreach programs. As director of alumni relations at Golden Gate University in San Francisco, she coordinated campus and regional activities for the law and business schools.
During her previous tenure as director of alumni relations at Occidental, Parry conceived of and implemented the Oxy Taper Theatre Program, which still offers L.A.-area alumni the chance to enjoy theater at the Music Center. She also was instrumental in forming the Student Alumni Relations Committee and the Occidental Business Associates, and reorganized the alumni reunion program to create the current multi-class Alumni Weekend.
Parry says she is excited about the opportunities new technology offers to engage alumni in other cities and countries, and about using the new Alumni Center to hold myriad alumni events. "I am honored to be returning to Oxy as we prepare to mark its 125th anniversary and inaugurate the Samuelson Alumni Center," she said. "Alumni are stewards of the College’s history. They exemplify the value of a liberal arts education. It’s time to celebrate the contributions our Oxy alumni ambassadors make to their communities."
