Bob
While Bob Clary ’80 was serving as a member of the MacMurray College Alumni Board, he quickly gained appreciation for just how many people the College has impacted over the years. “I had the opportunity to meet alumni from a wide range of eras,” Clary said. “This sparked my interest to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees where I have had an opportunity to contribute to the alumni, students, faculty and staff of MacMurray.” Clary retired from a career in information technology while serving in various leadership roles. However, today, he has found a new role working with business, community and government leaders to promote higher education. Clary credits MacMurray for “providing me an opportunity to gain the soft skills to work effectively with other people.” Serving the College on the Board of Trustees or on the Alumni Board like Clary are just a couple of ways to give back but there are plenty of ways to support your alma mater. “The strength of any college is directly tied to the commitment by the alumni,” Clary said. Financial support is important, but Clary said that staying connected with the College is very beneficial. “For example, alumni can host events in their community, assist with meeting prospective students and their parents, attend athletic events when the team comes to their town and alumni can serve as ambassadors for MacMurray,” he said. “A unique feature we hear about MacMurray is that we truly are a family. We are the Mac Fam.”
Jared Lamb ’98 was a student-athlete during his time at MacMurray College, and it was those four years playing football that stand out the most for him as a Highlander. “Going to Mac was a great experience,” Lamb said. Having such a positive experience led to Lamb serving on the Alumni Board. “I’ve enjoyed my time serving on the board,” Lamb said. “I serve with a lot of great people who believe in the College. The passion and love for our school shines through them.” That passion and love are never more evident than at Homecoming. “It’s the highlight of the year,” Lamb said. “The Alumni Board, along with the College, do a great job planning this event.” Lamb graduated with a physical education degree and stayed in the Jacksonville school district for 15 years. Today, he is assistant principal at Stephen Decatur Middle School in Decatur, Illinois. “The education department at Mac was great,” Lamb said. “What I remember most is how tough the classes were. You really had to buckle down and study. I am where I am today because of Mac.” Lamb recently hosted a social event for the Highlander Club.
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