ALUMNI GUIDE Rev. AUG 2020
S H A RE P RI D E S TAY TO G E T H E R P ROT E C T U S F MA K E A N I M PAC T
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Love
USF?
You’ll REALLY love your Alumni Association Membership
Welcome
to the USF Alumni Association, a community of alumni and friends who LOVE USF and a vital component of the university’s ongoing success. While membership gives you access to many benefits and services, it also has the far-reaching impact of helping to protect USF, preserving the value of your degree and supporting future generations of Bulls. Largely self-funded, the Alumni Association depends on members like you for support. Dues are 75 percent tax deductible and provide much-needed funding for the USF Alumni Association’s many programs, services and activities. Please take a moment to review this handbook, which outlines both the benefits you receive and the impact of your Alumni Association membership. We hope as you read that you are filled with BULL PRIDE when you see the truly substantial impact of your support. Register at www.USFalumni.org/register to access up-to-date member benefits and discount codes at any time. Thank you!
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“Thanks to the Alumni Association, my son just found out that he got a $1,000 scholarship. He is a physics major who is doing research on how to kill cancer cells. This single mom of twins is very grateful!!” — Jennifer Teoli, BSW ’08 and MSW ’10, USFSP 3
POINT OF PRIDE USF is Florida’s only metropolitan Preeminent State Research University, a designation established by lawmakers to reward the state’s highest achieving public universities. Criteria include, among others, metrics for graduation rates, student retention rates, research expenditures, national rankings and the number of U.S. patents awarded. 4
IMPACT of Your Membership Take PRIDE in the tremendous impact your membership has on USF. Here’s a look by the numbers at a few of the Alumni Association’s accomplishments in 2020.
42,053 5,842
USF Alumni Association members
Life Members
$6,230,000
Total scholarship dollars awarded since our founding
32,170
4,041
Annual members
Student members
1700 HOURS
OUTSTANDING
90
Alumni recognized for their outstanding service and/or achievements
Volunteer time contributed by the Association’s student Ambassadors hosting dignitaries, learning leadership skills and representing USF in the community.
STAYING CONNECTED
+
+
242,000
70,000
Bulls and friends connected through USF Magazine
Alumni and friends connected to USF through social media
846 HOURS
Volunteer time contributed by chapter & society members during Stampede of Service.
chapter 220andAlumni society events
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SERVICE Stampede of Service events hosted by alumni chapters & societies
held around the country
MEMBERS AS OF 7/01/20
IMPACT On Student Success
Members should feel PRIDE in how they have supported and enriched the student experience at USF. Your membership supports programs that offer students unique opportunities to develop leadership skills and build their social and professional networks.
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USF Ambassadors – This hand-selected influential student
group exhibits a vast knowledge of USF and the Alumni Association and represents the student body by hosting dignitaries and officials throughout USF. The group also engages with alumni, educates fellow students about the importance of becoming active alumni, and gains experience and connections that will provide lifelong benefits.
Student Alumni Association (SAA) – As USF’s largest
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
STUDENT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION student organization with more than 4,000 members, the SAA is the first step in a lifelong journey with the university. It affords opportunities for students to interact with peers and alumni, to grow their network and develop skills to help them succeed both as a student and beyond.
Order of the Golden Brahman (OGB) — In this elite student
leadership organization, members demonstrate commitment to the Order’s mission of leadership and public service, promoting and protecting USF throughout their lives.
Scholarships – The USF Alumni Association awards scholarships to nearly 100
students each year through the generosity of alumni, faculty, staff and friends of USF. Since its inception, the Association has awarded over 6 million dollars in scholarships.
Student Events – Aimed at connecting alumni with students to help them build the skills needed to succeed at USF and beyond, activities include orientation sessions, Week of Welcome socials, and etiquette dinners with alumni.
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“The USF Ambassadors have always inspired me to take initiative, be creative and give life to my ideas. It is so rare to find an organization that encourages innovation and change! The Ambassadors gave me the support I needed to become a more confident, ambitious leader.” — Jordan See, USF Ambassador ‘157 7
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PROTECT USF Alumni are essential to safeguarding USF and ensuring both current students and the university remain successful. During legislative sessions, it’s alumni and friends whose voices often influence decision makers. Your membership helps provide the tools that allow alumni and friends to quickly and easily: • Read about USF legislative priorities. • Access key bills, the media and legislators. • Register to vote. • Quickly and easily take action on key issues. Visit www.USFalumni.org/ advocate to get involved.
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“I’m thrilled at the number of alumni who have stepped forward on multiple occasions to protect USF by sending messages to legislators from our advocacy website. Time and time again, this huge outpouring has ensured the voices of USF alumni are heard and has helped secure our university’s equitable treatment in the state legislative process. That make me very proud.” – Bill McCausland, ‘96 MBA, USF Alumni Association executive director 99
Bulls Stay
TOGETHER Your membership helps support programs and activities that allow alumni, friends and the community to engage with each other and USF — virtually, in print and in person. Whether you live in Tampa, New York, Los Angeles or even Shanghai, you can stay connected.
USF Alumni Groups – Your fellow Bulls are worldwide! Join an alumni group to stay connected to USF after graduation. Get involved with advocacy, fundraising, mentoring, community service and events that are just for fun! Visit www.USFalumni.org/groups or call 800-299-BULL (2855) to connect with Bulls in your area or from your college.
Alumni Events — Activities throughout the year
welcome alumni back on campus and beyond. Visit www.USFalumni.org/calendar for a calendar of upcoming events including: • Homecoming - a weeklong celebration including a Parade, Welcome Home Party and Pre-Game Spirit Tent • Alumni Awards Banquet and Ceremony – honoring distinguished USF alumni and friends • Green & Gold Gala Annual Fundraiser • Outstanding Young Alumni Awards • Fast 56 Awards – celebrating the fastest-growing Bullowned or -led businesses • Away athletics game tailgate parties • Member appreciation events • Student engagement opportunities through networking and mentoring events
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“I love being a member of the USF Alumni Association. When I moved to Georgia [more than] seven years ago, the USF Atlanta Chapter became my first friends here in Atlanta!.” — Marnie Williams, `97
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USF Bull Explorers Alumni Travel Program — Each year,
alumni and friends travel with the USF Alumni Association, making new friends and renewing their connections to USF. Past destinations have included Russia, France, Italy, the Virgin Islands, Alaska, Peru and Tahiti. To learn more about the travel program, visit www.USFalumni.org/travel.
AlumNews — Monthly e-newsletter communicates the most recent USF news, upcoming events and Class Notes, announcements about new jobs, promotions, marriages, and more. USF — The official magazine of the USF Alumni Association, this member-exclusive, quarterly magazine features news from throughout USF, updates on your fellow alumni, alumni profiles, reader contributions, and more. It’s an entertaining way to stay connected to USF and your fellow Bulls.
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“USF has not only allowed me to craft my future, but positioned me to have a global network of mentors and friends. It is only right to give back by becoming a Life Member of the Alumni Association, the common thread that connects generations of engaged Bulls” — Rhondel Whyte, ’16, Electrical Engineering 13
Online Networking — Reconnect with old friends and classmates or network with fellow USF alumni through a variety of online social networking sites: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/USFalumni LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2939206 Twitter: http://twitter.com/USFalumniAssn Instagtram: www.instagram.com/usf__alumni
USF Alumni Association Mobile App — Download the
brand new Alumni mobile app! Access your member benefits and virtual membership card on the go! Select “YES” to receive notifications about events, discounts, tailgates and giveaways. Download at Apple App Store: bit.ly/2uP7vh1 or Google Play: bit.ly/2sLm8Fx
Alumni Text Messages and Action Alerts — Sign up for text messages and Action Alerts by texting MyUSF to 41411. Standard message and data rates apply. Classmate Search — To reconnect with an old friend or classmate, search for fellow alumni at www.USFalumni.org (click on Alumni Search in QuickLinks) call us at 813-974-2100, or email your request to alumni@usf. edu. Use “Alumni Search” as your subject, list the name and class year of the person you want to locate, along with your name, class year, address, e-mail and telephone number. We will forward your contact information to the alumnus you’re trying to reach.
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USF Alumni Association Website
Find the most up-to-date information on your Alumni Association membership programs, events and more. While there, don’t forget to: • View your member benefits (for full member access and discount codes, create an account and view the website while logged in). • Check the calendar of USF events. • Advocate for USF. • Join or renew your membership. • Update your address, phone number, email or employment information. And much, much more!
www.USFalumni.org
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“I had heard very good things from fellow alumni about traveling with USF. It was all true. The travel company they used was outstanding and very organized.” — Jose Valiente, ‘73, Kentucky Derby traveler 15
Your
BULL PRIDE
Passionate alumni are crucial to building a university’s reputation. Their proud support creates a positive perception of their university everywhere they go. The Alumni Association offers numerous opportunities for alumni to be proud and vocal advocates for USF in their workplaces, communities and homes.
Volunteer — Volunteer opportunities through the USF Alumni Association are limitless. Whether you serve as an advocate, speak at workshops, participate on a committee or help out at a special event, your time and talent are much needed and appreciated. For more information call 813-974-5390. Giving — Because the USF Alumni Association is
primarily self-funded, gifts are vital to our existence. Your generosity is a powerful way to show support, strengthen our mission and make a lasting difference. All gifts are 100% tax deductible. Visit www.usfalumni.org/mygift.
USF License Plate — Showing your Bull pride and supporting student scholarships has never been easier! Visit www.bullsplate.org to find out how. Florida drivers, switch to the all-new USF Bulls specialty license plate!
“Your donation means more than financial assistance. ... It means someone is there supporting me, believing I have the ability to accomplish my goals. ... I will forever be grateful for your contribution. You have truly made an enormous impact on my life.”
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Andrea Escobar, USF License Plate scholarship recipient 16
www.USFalumni.org
POINT OF PRIDE USF ranks 1st among Florida universities, 8th in the nation and 16th worldwide for inventions granted U.S. patents, according to the National Academy of Inventors and the Intellectual Property Owners Association’s 2019 report.
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CAREER Resources USF Career Services — USF alumni can take advantage of extensive resources and expertise to find a job, enhance their professional prospects and hire USF students and graduates. Get unlimited free access to Handshake, the online career management system, member discounts on career coaching, and more. Visit www.usf.edu/career-services to learn more. Going Global Career Service — The ultimate job-seeker’s
tool for finding employment abroad, this service is exclusively for USF Alumni Association members and is packed with country-specific career information updated annually, and features topics such as:
• Information on job sites, job fairs, executive search firms, etc. • Country employment outlook • Corporate profiles with NAICS info., contacts, etc. • Trade and professional organizations • Business resources and networking groups • Work permits and visa regulations • Finance and compensation information • Resumé/CV advice and samples • Interview and cultural advice
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“USF has transformed my life personally and professionally! I met my beautiful wife, best friends, mentors, and business partner all at USF. Our alma mater’s unstoppable vision and entrepreneurial spirit fit my Bullish personality and I LOVE being a Life Member for our USF Alumni Association.” Richard Heruska, `99
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“Every great university has an organization or society of student leaders to act as custodians of this greatness and to continue as an advocate even after graduation. USF’s organization, The Order of the Golden Brahman, builds and protects our legacy and future.” — Raymond O. Gross, ’69
Member
SAVINGS and SERVICES See Frequently Asked Questions (page 31) for details on how to access your member benefits.
FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES USF Federal Credit Union Financial Services — USF
Alumni Association members can access the USF Federal Credit Union’s low banking fees, exclusive USF-branded credit cards, competitive home and auto loan rates and all the benefits of belonging to a credit union.
www.usffcu.com 813-569-2000 or 800-763-2005, option 0
The Official USF Visa® Signature Rewards Credit Card, www.bullscard.com — Earn rewards, get cash back
and support USF with every purchase! The card offers a competitive rate and purchases made with it help support Alumni Association programs – at no additional cost to you.
USF Bulls Checking Account and Debit Card, www.bullsbanking.com — Show your Bull pride with
each check you write and every swipe of your USF-branded debit card. Purchases made with it support Alumni Association programs – at no additional cost to you.
USF Federal Credit Union Auto Buying Service — Buying a vehicle is hassle-free for USF Alumni Association members. A free Auto Advisor will guide you through the buying process and help you get a great purchase price. Loans financed through the USF Federal Credit Union will save you money and benefit the Alumni Association.
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Auto, Rental and Property Insurance — USF alumni
could now receive a special discount on GEICO auto insurance. GEICO offers great rates, exceptional 24-hour service, fast fair claims handling and high quality auto insurance to over 17 million policyholders across the United States. In addition to auto insurance, GEICO can also help insure your motorcycle and the GEICO Insurance Agency can help you with homeowners, renters, condo, boat insurance and more. Visit geico.com/alum/usf, call 1-800-368-2734, or contact a local GEICO office to find out how much you could save today! (Be sure to mention your affiliation with the University of South
Florida Alumni Association to be eligible for the special savings.)
For full terms and conditions, please visit www.usfalumni.org/financialservices
Life and Health Insurance — The USF Alumni Insurance Program offers a diverse portfolio of insurance products to meet the needs of our alumni and their families. Protect the people and things that matter most with Life Insurance, Health Insurance, Long-term Care Insurance, and more. Get more information by visiting TheAIP.com/USF or call The Alumni Insurance Program at 1-800-922-1245 USF ACCESS & SAVINGS Gibbons Alumni Center Room Rental— Alumni
Association members can rent rooms in the renovated Gibbons Alumni Center, from small meeting rooms seating eight to a large multi-purpose room seating up to 285. For more information, visit www.USFalumni.org/ USFalumnicenter. Life Members receive a 15% discount on Gibbons Alumni Center space rental.
USF Library — Enjoy library privileges at USF System
Libraries. Check out books, get research assistance and other help from specialized subject librarians. Reference services are available via the reference desk, telephone, email and online chat.
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USF Recreation Center — Alumni Association members
are eligible to join USF’s Tampa and St. Petersburg Recreational Centers. The nationally ranked USF Tampa Campus Recreation Center features a heated indoor pool, two gymnasiums, state-of-the-art equipment and machines, and more for less than local gyms. Additional monthly or yearly fees apply. Visit www.usf.edu/campusrec for more information.
USF Bookstore — Visit the USF Bookstore for a huge selection of official merchandise. Alumni Association members receive a 15% discount on most USF apparel while shopping at the Tampa, St. Pete and Sarasota USF Bookstores. Online discount code available too! (sale items excluded from discount)
USF Botanical Gardens
20% discount on USF Botanical Gardens individual and family annual memberships. The USF Botanical Gardens consists of nearly 16 acres of gardens and greenbelt at USF Tampa. For more information visit gardens.usf.edu
USF Riverfront Park — Association members can experience the outdoors in USF’s very own private park on the breathtaking Hillsborough River. It features canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, disc golf, softball fields, pavilions, high ropes course, and more! Lifelong Learning at USF — Osher Lifelong Learning
Institute (OLLI-USF) offers classes, workshops and programs for ages 50 and older. They’re low-cost, non-credit and offered at multiple Hillsborough County locations. Alumni Association members get their first course free when they become OLLI-USF members (special and cultural programs not included).
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“Campus Rec is the best gym in the Tampa area. The group fitness and modern equipment make this a phenomenal place for members. Go Bulls!” — Melissa Leuzzi, ‘14 23
USF Tampa Campus Parking — Alumni Association members have the exclusive privilege to purchase a USF alumni parking decal. Parking restrictions and additional fees apply. USF Claw — Members receive a $10 discount
on standard golf rates and a 20% discount on all merchandise in the shop, excluding any sale items.
USF Address Labels — Personalized address labels available at the click of a button. Visit www.USFalumni.org/USFAAlabels to place your order. USF Diploma Frames — The USF Bookstore has a variety of official USF Diploma Frames to commemorate your accomplishment. Frame your accomplishment!
Members-Only Alumni Gear — Members have access
to exclusive USF gear that can’t be found anywhere else! Collectors’ items have included Homecoming shirts and beads, and commemorative Tervis tumblers.
USF Corporate Training and Professional Education —
USF Alumni Association members receive 10 percent off several courses, certificates and certification preparation classes. Those include, but are not limited to, professional development in human resources, project management and leadership and test preparation for undergraduate and graduate college entrance exams.
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“I received a great education from caring instructors and made lifelong friendships that I cherish to this day. My USF degree helped me earn a great job - and an even better job after I returned for my MBA. The Alumni Association is a wonderful place to hang out with fellow Bulls, network and give back to the university that has benefited me in so many ways. GO BULLS!” — Andy Coe, `95
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SAVINGS & ENTERTAINMENT WorkLodge — Ready to upgrade your private office?
Downtown St. Pete’s newest private office spaces are move-in ready! Fully furnished offices come with a suite of amenities, including conference rooms, podcast studio, blazing fast internet and simple, all-inclusive pricing. Members receive your first month free! Visit worklodge.com/dtsp or call 727-500-2321.
Terrace Storage Center —The newest self-storage facility in the USF area is now offering free use of their truck for move in, 20% off all moving & packing supplies with new rentals, in addition to 1 FREE month rent for all USF Alumni association members. Visit templeterracestorage.com or call 813-563-6210. Kaplan Education Courses — Receive a 10% discount
off all online and in person comprehensive courses, and self-paced courses for college and beyond.
New Horizons — Receive up to 40% off instruction in desktop applications, and business skills and technical classes. Instruction is offered to members in individual or group settings, as well as onsite* classes live in Tampa and virtual instructor-led or OnDemand self-paced e-learning. New Horizons - Upgrading People Every Day. Save money while boosting your or your company’s marketability with valuable skills. *on-site classes offered through the New Horizons Tampa location only
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Abenity Member Perks
— Enjoy exclusive perks and over $4,500 in savings on everything from pizza and the zoo, to movie tickets, oil changes, hotels, and car rentals! And, with over 302,000 available discounts across 10,000 cities in the United States and Canada, you’ll never be far from savings!
Theme Parks, Shows, Entertainment — Tickets at Work offers exclusive discounts, special offers and access to preferred seating and tickets to top attractions, theme parks, shows, sporting events, movie tickets, hotels and much more!
Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) —
Save 20% on membership at the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa. MOSI membership benefits include discounts on MOSI summer camps, birthday parties and special engagement exhibitions, plus free or discounted admission to 250 science museums worldwide and over 20 local attractions during select months. Visit MOSI.org and click on the membership tab.
Ready to Remodel? — The Home Depot is proud to offer USF Alumni Association members preferred pricing on all the kitchen and laundry appliance brands it sells nationally. Painters on Demand — Save 20% on all
professional painting services through Painters On Demand. With locations in the Tampa Bay area, Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale and Nashville, TN. Superior painting services provided through reliable painting professionals that are uniformed, badged, and highly trained.
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“I love USF because of all the traditions I got to participate in while being a student. I also love USF because my entire family are alumni and we always go to Homecoming and other fun USF events like the football games together.” — Lauren Tice, `11
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Biltmore Estates — Get a discount on admission to Biltmore Estates, George Vanderbilt’s extraordinary home, beautiful gardens and winery, on 8,000 acres in the mountains of Asheville, N.C. www.biltmore.com/usfaa Brooks Brothers — Need a new suit to wear to an important business meeting? Alumni members can save 15% at Brooks Brothers. TRAVEL Car Rental — Whether traveling domestically or abroad, save up to 35% from more than 550 car rental suppliers at more than 28,000 worldwide locations.
Hotels — Access a worldwide inventory of hotels at exclusive discounted rates. Savings can exceed 50% and average 10-20% below best available rates.
Travel Insurance — You deserve to travel knowing the trip of your dreams is insured. As a member of the association you have access to three different levels of coverage so you can choose the right plan for your unique needs and budget. Options include trip cancellation, trip interruption and 24hour access to emergency assistance services.
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Membership Options For
EVERYONE
The USF Alumni Association has a variety of memberships and giving options designed to fit the needs of our alumni and friends. Visit us on the web at www.USFalumni.org or call 813-974-2100. Seventy-five percent of dues are tax deductible. Consult your tax advisor.
New Graduate Membership
Complimentary one-year membership for graduates awarded at the time of graduation.
New Graduate Life Membership
Limited Time Only - $250 discount Single Life – $550 Joint Life – $850
Associate Life Membership payment plan (credit card only)
Single – $50/month for 11 consecutive months
Joint – $100 down, $50/month for 15 consecutive months
Life Membership special offer valid through month of graduation only.
Annual Membership
Single – $50
Go Green with our annual automatic renewal option.
Life Membership
Fully-paid Life Membership Single – $800 Joint – $1,100
Associate Life Membership 12-month plan (credit card only) Single – $67/month Joint – $92/month for 12 consecutive months
Joint – $65
Associate Life Membership 25-month plan (credit card only) Single – $32/month Joint – $44/month for 25 consecutive months continued >
Life Membership makes an impact on USF FOREVER! A full 90% of Life Life-Member Exclusive Member dues are invested in a board-directed endowment that supports everything the USF Alumni Association does now and for years to come — and you will never be asked to pay dues again! Life Members enjoy special recognition. Past Life Member exclusive recognition has included: • Life Member Homecoming Reception • Inclusion in the Life Member Honor Roll • Life Member Appreciation Bulls baseball game 29 29
Life Member Circle Of Excellence
Circle of Excellence is an honorary society to recognize Life Members who generously support the USF Alumni Association through additional annual gifts. Circle of Excellence gifts are placed into the Executive Director’s Fund for Excellence and are used to help the Alumni Association continue to serve alumni, students and the University of South Florida. Every gift is important and helps support our mission. Members who participate at the following levels will be given special recognition as part of our Life Member Circle of Excellence: Silver Level – Annual Gift of $1-$249 Gold Level – Annual Gift of $250-$499 Emerald Level – Annual Gift of $500-$999 Diamond Level – Annual Gift of $1,000 or more www.USFalumni.org/COE
University Club
The U Club is a prestigious giving society of the USF Alumni Association. Alumni and friends can make a significant impact on the university through a generous endowment of $25,000 or more. Contact Kemel Thompson at 813-974-1891 or Kemel@usf.edu
USF Planned Giving
Making a planned gift is a wonderful way to show your support for the University of South Florida and its mission while accommodating your own personal, financial, estate-planning and philanthropic goals. For more information, contact Kemel Thompson at Kemel@usf.edu or 813 974 1891
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“Your support of my goals means so much to me and my family. Attending medical school is something I have dreamt about since I was 10 years old, and thanks to your generosity, this goal is now obtainable for me.” Kelsey Hundley, Harrison and Ruth Kosove Scholarship Recipient 30
Alumni Association
CONTACT US
Frequently Asked Questions How do I view my member-exclusive discounts? Visit www.USFalumni.org/benefits and log in using the “Member Access to Discounts and Offers” button. First-time users must first create an account on the Alumni Association’s website at www.USFalumni.org/register How do I update my phone number, email and/or mailing address? • Email – AlumniMemberServices@usf.edu • Call – 813-974-2100 How do I request a replacement membership card? • Email – AlumniMemberServices@usf.edu (include your name, address and member ID, if known) • Call – 813-974-2100. Member benefits are subject to change. Please visit www.usfalumni.org/benefits for the most up-to-date information.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ww.USFalumni.org Membership 813-974-2100 800-299-BULL (2855) Chapters and Societies 813-974-5390 Events 813-974-9127 Sam and Martha Gibbons Alumni Center 813-974-9110 ADDITIONAL UNIVERSITY CONTACTS USF TAMPA Admissions (undergrad) 813-974-3350 or 877-USF-BULL Admissions (graduate) 813-974-8800 or 866-974-8800 Athletic Ticket Office 800-GO-BULLS Bookstore 813-974-2631 Continuing Education 813-974-2403 Parking Services 813-974-3990 Registrar’s Office 813-974-2000 Library 813-974-2729 USF Card Center 813-974-2357 Campus Recreation Center 813-974-7084 USF ST. PETERSBURG 727-USF-4USF USF SARASOTA-MANATEE 941-359-4200 Gibbons Alumni Center 4202 E. Fowler Ave. ALC 100 Tampa, FL 33620-5455
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RIDE
#
PRIDE
WITH
Why just renew when you can get the new USF Bulls plate?
Choose pride.
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