Student support series: Alumni Coordinator

An education that changes more than your résumé

Graduation is a milestone, but it’s not the end of the journey. For many UFred students, it’s the moment they realize how much has changed. New confidence. New perspective. New possibilities.

When students leave UFred, they leave changed for the better. The alumni support at the University of Fredericton exists to honour that life-changing journey and help it continue. We spoke with Elizabeth MacLaughlin, UFred’s Alumni Coordinator, about how she helps graduates stay connected and carry their UFred experience forward into their next chapter.

Growth through connection

Connection is a core part of Elizabeth’s role, but it’s never just about networking. It’s about helping students see themselves differently through shared experience.

Elizabeth facilitates alumni connections in several ways, including mentorship opportunities, webinars and personal introductions. She also plans and hosts Meet and Greet events across Canada, giving people the chance to connect in-person.

She also manages UFred Connect, the university’s networking platform for current students and alumni. Here, people can connect with peers, stay informed about university updates and access shared scholarship and job opportunities.

In addition to alumni relations tasks, Elizabeth is also responsible for planning and attending the annual International Field Study for MBA and EMBA capstone students. If you’re curious about it, feel free to reach out to her any time!

Support that spans every stage of the journey

While much of the Alumni Coordinator’s work focuses on graduation, Elizabeth is always happy to support prospective and current students as well. Whether someone is exploring a program, considering specialty streams or learning more about capstone options, she helps connect them with alumni who have already walked that path.

Hearing directly from someone who has been there can make all the difference. Through one-on-one conversations, webinars and orientation sessions, she helps students feel more confident about what lies ahead.

Seeing the impact up close

The most rewarding part of Elizabeth’s role is getting to know students on a personal level.

Meeting students and alumni in person during Meet and Greets and the International Field Study is especially impactful. Elizabeth also finds joy in moments of celebration online. Logging into LinkedIn and seeing graduates tag UFred as they receive their diplomas is a reminder of the effort, resilience and determination behind every credential.

Why UFred leaves a lasting impact

From an alumni perspective, UFred stands out for its ability to combine flexibility with quality. Its programs meet rigorous accreditation standards and hold respected third-party accreditations, reflecting a commitment to academic excellence. “UFred is a shining example of how online education really can work, and be of the same quality as traditional bricks and mortar programs,” Elizabeth says.

At the same time, UFred’s online model allows students to continue working, apply learning in real time and pause their studies when life requires it. Students don’t have to put their lives on hold to pursue higher education. That balance is what makes the experience transformative. Students grow professionally, personally and intellectually.

Advice for future students

Elizabeth’s advice for future students is simple and heartfelt: believe in yourself.

“If you want to achieve this, you absolutely can. It will take hard work and dedication, but what you’ll learn and the connections you’ll make along the way make it all worthwhile,” she says. “We’re here to support you every step of the way!”

Taking the leap into higher education requires courage and commitment, but the growth that comes from the journey makes it worthwhile. Along the way, students gain knowledge, confidence and a sense of belonging that stays with them long after graduation.

Still by your side

Your time at UFred doesn’t end when your program does. Through continued connection, shared experience and a strong alumni community, UFred remains by your side as you move forward, carrying the impact of your education into everything that comes next.