On Friday, Oct. 20, Langston University hosted its inaugural Lion Connect Mixer during homecoming week. The “Ultimate Homecoming Mixer” allowed students to connect with alumni and other industry professionals. The event lasted three hours, featuring music, food, networking, and panelist discussions.
CoBank sponsored the event in partnership with Langston University Office of Alumni Affairs. CoBank is a national bank that provides financial services to farms and rural industries across America. Spokesperson LaTonya Keaton, the St. Louis Vice President of Regional Agribusiness for CoBank says this is just the beginning of their relationship with Langston University. “It is critical to our success as an organization to be identifying relationships throughout the marketplace that we can meet students, we can meet alumni, we can meet professors that are grooming the next generation of agricultural professionals,” said Keaton. With Langston being one of the top universities in goat research and a hub for agriculture in Oklahoma; this partnership was a way to build relationships and diversify the company.
Lounge-style decorations were set up throughout Sanford Lawn offering students and alumni a comfortable environment to network with one another. Food was provided by Aladdin Services and music was provided by a professional DJ. At the center of the event was a large stage where the panel discussions were held. Six panelists alongside moderator Paris Rain of Fox 23 and a Langston alum, discussed their journey throughout college and into the workforce. Here, students gained valuable knowledge and connected with alumni who were once in their shoes.
For students unable to attend this year’s event, look forward to attending in the future. The Langston University Office of Alumni Affairs has begun preparations to host the event next year. “We hope had a fantastic time connecting, networking, and sharing your insights with fellow attendees,” said Jermaine Gunnells, the creator and founder of Lion Connect in a statement. “Your presence added immense value to our event, and we look forward to the continued relationships and opportunities that will flourish from these connections.”
As homecoming week ends, students are encouraged to continue to network with alumni that are still on campus. “Tomorrow, [Oct. 21] you’re gonna see so many more alumni and I say just get out and make sure you’re meeting new people,” said Brooke Blakely, a sophomore public health major. You never know what opportunities you might get from networking with others.
Aniyah Robinson
Staff Writer
Aniyah Robinson is a junior broadcast journalism major
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