CAAE Member Spotlight, April 2024

Name: Heath Peterson

Institution: University of Kansas/KU Alumni Association

Q: Are you new to alumni relations, new to your institution, neither, or both?

A: Neither. I recently began my 19^th year at the KU Alumni Association and have served in the role of President the previous eight years.

Q: Best perk of the job so far:

A: Connecting with and building relationships with amazing Jayhawks who give their time, talents, and treasure to make KU the special place it is. 

Q: Biggest challenge so far:

A: The biggest challenge is trying to be relevant and create value for many generations of alumni and friends. They have unique experiences and have different preferences and expectations in terms of how they want to engage with their alumni association and university.  

Q: If you needed to, could you sing your school’s fight song and/or alma mater?

A: Yes, however, I don’t think anyone wants to hear me sing!

Q: What would it surprise people to know about you?

A: I am a first-generation college graduate. 

Q: Who would be your dream dinner guests?

A: At this juncture in our nation’s history, I think it would be especially interesting to have dinner with our Founding Fathers.  

Q: When I’m not on the job, you’ll find me…

A: On the pitch or court watching my kids compete in soccer, volleyball, and basketball. We enjoy traveling as a family and spending time at the lake.