Starting this week, Michelle Biggs will be the university’s new Executive Director of Alumni Relations.
Biggs holds a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University. She is also a 2015 graduate of the Institute for Organization Management, a four-year educational program focused on nonprofit management. The program is sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and held at the University of Georgia.
Biggs has over 25 years of experience in strategic planning, branding and community relations with much of her experience obtained within the realm of nonprofit work. She spent the last six to 12 years as Communication and Administrative Officer of the St. Tammany West Chamber of Commerce where she oversaw the day-to-day management of the 1,000 member organization. Several years ago, Biggs also served as Associate Director for the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts and served on the Advisory Board for the theatre, which helped maintain her connection to the university, donors and the local Hammond community.
Biggs is eager to once again become part of the Hammond community.
“I’m looking forward to returning to Hammond, immersing myself into the Lion Nation and building relationships with Southeastern alumni in order to showcase the incredible institution that is Southeastern Louisiana University,” said Biggs.
Many members of Southeastern’s staff that will work in conjuncture to her are excited to begin work with Biggs.
“Michelle’s past experiences will be an asset as we implement new initiatives directed at ensuring increased engagement from a diverse alumni community,” said Vice President for University Advancement Wendy Lauderdale. “We look forward to having her return to work again within the Southeastern family.”
Biggs plans to use her already established connections to further the cause of the Alumni Association.
“I will maintain my involvement within my community, not only throughout the Northshore region but throughout the state, representing the university and reaching out to all alumni to garner their support,” said Biggs. “Because of my history with the chamber and ties to the business community, I also plan to tap into area businesses to identify possible partnerships that can be developed that would be mutually beneficial to all interested parties.”
She first became aware of the position’s availability through her ties with the Hammond community.
“I was fortunate enough to previously serve as Associate Director for the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts, owned and operated by Southeastern, several years ago,” said Biggs. “Working with former Director Donna Gay Anderson, I developed many great relationships with university administration, loyal donors and community leaders. I’m looking forward to coming back and continuing to build relationships with the great community of Hammond.”
Biggs hopes to grow support for the university by getting alumni more involved.
“In my first year, I plan to evaluate, strengthen and enhance existing programming, and to develop and implement new programs that will maximize the engagement of all Southeastern alumni, thereby increasing support for the university overall,” said Biggs.