CASE Europe has recently launched an alumni community to reunite past CASE Graduate Trainees, who have been part of the programme since it was established in 2009. The group aims to create a global network of diverse individuals who will support, challenge, and inspire one another by sharing experiences, best practices, and resources that help them stay engaged in the advancement sector.
Recently appointed as Chair and Vice-Chair were Georgia Willmot, 2022/23 cohort and Rhianna Williams, 2018/19 cohort. We connected with Rhianna to find out about her experience on the programme and her hopes for the alumni community.
Thinking back to when you first found the Graduate Trainee Programme opportunity, what motivated you to apply?
My motivation was the programme's reputation for offering an immersive learning experience across all areas of advancement. The opportunity to work with experienced professionals and genuinely contribute to initiatives was a significant factor in my decision to apply.
What were your key learnings from the programme and how did you apply these to your placement at Imperial College London?
Participating in the CASE organised workshops provided me with valuable insights into best practice and innovative strategies which I was able to apply to the projects I was tasked with. The chance to network with industry professionals outside of your host university at the CASE Institutes and Conferences is another invaluable aspect of the programme. They provided wonderful opportunities to collaborate and learn from advancement professionals of all levels and roles.
What would you say to an individual who may be considering applying for the programme?
I would emphasise the unparalleled opportunity it offers for professional growth and development in the field of advancement – a really exciting and rewarding career path with a fantastic, welcoming global community. The CASE Graduate Trainee Programme provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, enabling participants to build a strong foundation to jumpstart their career.
What would be your advice to an institution that may be interested in hosting a trainee?
My advice for an institution that may be considering hosting a trainee would be to view the programme as a mutually beneficial partnership. Hosting a trainee not only allows for the infusion of fresh perspectives and energy into the institution, but also provides an opportunity to engage in mentorship and talent development.
It's crucial to provide the trainee with meaningful projects and responsibilities that align with the institution's goals, ensuring a symbiotic relationship where both the institution and the trainee derive maximum value from the experience.
This isn’t like other trainee programmes where graduates will be making the tea and coffee – with CASE you get stuck in straight away, allowing graduates to make the most of their time at your institution, and make a real difference.
You’re now working at Latymer Upper School as an Alumni & Communications Officer, what are some of the key aspects of your role that you enjoy?
My role revolves around alumni engagement, primarily coordinating events and communications. Though I’m also known as the data and tech whiz!
I assist with implementing the communications strategy across the Latymer Foundation and Latymer Alumni social media channels, website, and alumni email inbox. This also includes leading a separate alumni community site (LatymerConnects.com), which services over 5,000 members and provides its own weekly newsletter. I am also the Editor of the bi-annual alumni magazine, Latymerian, so I am in sole charge of all stages of creation and delivery of the magazine.
I also support Latymer's bursary fundraising club for students, RAIS£, with the organisation of student fundraising events and mentor students on fundraising and event management. Since 2018/19, RAIS£ has boosted the Bursaries Appeal by over £45,000, which is a fantastic achievement.
You’ve recently been appointed Vice-Chair of the CASE Graduate Alumni Community, what does this position mean to you?
Being appointed was an honour. I see the role as an opportunity to foster a sense of community and collaboration. It also represents a chance to give back to the programme that played a crucial role in shaping my career.
As vice-chair, I hope to help build a vibrant and supportive network for graduates of the CASE Graduate Trainee Programme. I envision the community as a platform for knowledge exchange, professional development, and friendship. By facilitating connections between alumni, providing resources, and organising events, I hope to help build a community that not only enhances the individual careers of its members but also contributes to the broader advancement field.
What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?
This is a tough one! It’s perhaps too hard to pinpoint one example of my career so far, but generally, it is probably the opportunity to continually make a difference every day.
Applications are currently open for host institutions and trainees for the CASE Europe Graduate Trainee Programme. To find out how you can get involved, please visit our webpage.