From the Nominator

"The BrownConnect initiative launched seven years ago with a goal of providing Brown students with better access to internships, funding, and alumni connections. Due to the strong partnership between the alumni relations team and the CareerLAB, multiple programs have evolved during the pandemic to better serve our students, including creating the BrownConnect Summer Immersion program. The program reimagines ways students can connect with alumni.     

In summer 2020, we launched the BrownConnect Summer Institute (BCSI), which was designed to provide students with an immersive, educational experience allowing them to engage with and learn from a diverse group of Brown alumni and community members. The program was created with the knowledge that experiential learning opportunities would be more limited for students' summers during the pandemic. It consisted of two modules that allowed the students to participate in the BCSI alongside remote internships or summer jobs. In the first three weeks, students participate in virtual case studies hosted by Brown alumni and community members. During the second module, students conduct individual or group projects, mentored by alumni and community members serving in the role of project leaders.   

In summer 2021, BrownConnect again introduced a new program for important alumni connections. Utilizing the virtual space, BrownConnect piloted a mentorship program aimed at helping students secure important alumni connections during the summer months. The program cultivated meaningful conversations between Brown alumni and students, and was a great opportunity for alumni to connect with current Brown undergraduates to share personal and professional insight, advice, and expertise."

From the Judges

It was impressive how the institution used new technology and resources to enhance an existing program and expand its scope.