GOLDenTimes | January 2025
Greetings, Augustana College Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD) Alumni!
You are reading the GOLD Council’s first-ever issue of GOLDen Times, a newsletter by GOLD alumni for GOLD alumni. (Phew, how many times can a person use the word GOLD in a sentence?!)
Have you been missing the sense of community felt only on campus? Have you felt that it’s tough to find what Augie events are happening? Look no further!
This issue of GOLDen Times is written by me, Mia Gerace ‘20. I’m the GOLD Council’s Marketing and Social Events Committee liaison. I am currently an emergency management specialist for the City of Aurora (Illinois) Emergency Management Agency. At Augie, I studied geography, journalism, and geology and was involved in the Augustana Symphony Orchestra and a member of the Sigma Pi Delta sorority. In my free time, I love to read, listen to podcasts and collect rocks and minerals.
Young alumni pickleball social: a smashing success!
A group of young alumni gathered at Pickle Haus in Algonquin, Ill., on Thursday, Nov. 14, to learn and play pickleball! Also at the event was a pickleball pro to teach the rules of the game to beginners and give tips to those who are more experienced players!
After Augie Podcast episode: Katie Griswold '20
In November’s episode of the After Augie Podcast, Katie Griswold ’20 sits down with host Evan Sammons ’20 to share her transformative journey from Augustana student to passionate educator. They chat about Katie's life-changing experiences traveling with the Augustana Choir and Chamber Choir, exploring how those adventures built on her love for music. Katie delves into her discovery of a calling to teach, inspired by recognizing needs and stepping up to make a difference.
Book recommendation of the month
Looking for an insightful read going into the new year? Check out Imperfect: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown! Brown discusses how courage, vulnerability and connection can help overcome shame while combating the stigma that so often accompanies imposter syndrome.
Have a book or podcast to recommend to fellow young alumni? Submit a recommendation to be featured in GOLDen Times!
Young alumni class notes highlight
Which 2018 grad is pursuing a Ph.D. in Sweden?! Click the link below.
➡️ Class Notes
Augie fun fact!
Did you know Old Main was originally named Memorial Hall? Read more about Old Main’s history below.
Super Bowl Snacks & Sips
Tuesday, Feb. 4 | 7-8 p.m. Central
Hosting a Super Bowl party this year? Plan on watching and want to treat yourself to some snacks and drinks? Hop on Zoom for some Super Bowl snacks and sips inspo! Two simple snacks (one salty and one sweet) plus a mixed drink and a mocktail will be taught to you by a few GOLD alumni. View the recipe list here.
Winter in the Windy City
Friday, Feb. 7 | 6-8 p.m. Central
800 W. Fulton Market, Chicago
Cost: Tickets discounted to $35 for graduates of the last decade
Looking to reconnect with old friends? Are you enthusiastic about your career and interested in sharing it with others? Come as you are to hang out with other alumni! Partners and friends are encouraged to attend.
A young alumni gathering will be hosted at Time Out Market Chicago after the event. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
Thanks for reading! Until next month, and Go Vikings!
Mia Gerace '20
GOLD Council Marketing and Social Events Committee Liaison
PS - Be sure to follow us on Instagram @augustanagoldalumni!