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2009 PCA Inductee Karen A. Wallace

Presidential Council of Alumnae (PCA)

Mission

The Michigan Technological University Presidential Council of Alumnae (PCA) are recognized for achievements in a number of areas, such as education, professional achievements, past service as a student or currently in their community, support for the University, and personal achievements. The PCA advises the President on campus climate issues and provides suggestions for enhancing the University’s environment for all students. The PCA members assist the President by identifying programs and activities that will benefit Michigan Tech. PCA works with the Advancement area and the academic departments to help implement their ideas, and support the University’s strategic plan. The Council works to:

  • Act in an advisory capacity to the President and University Advancement
  • Enhance diverse support for the University through increased interaction by Council members
  • Encourage and strengthen interaction of Michigan Tech alumnae with their academic departments and assist in improving department programs
  • Encourage and support Michigan Tech female students, faculty, and alumnae in accomplishing career and life choice goals
  • Advance Michigan Tech students by helping develop their leadership and professional skills

Serving Michigan Tech

Members of the Presidential Council of Alumnae serve Michigan Tech in a variety of ways. Their contributions include:

  • PCA Meetings/Events—Members regularly attend annual PCA meetings where they meet with different Michigan Tech faculty, staff, students, and/or administrators. Often, these meetings conclude with the development of a set of recommendations for Michigan Tech (sent to the Michigan Tech President) on how to continue building a supportive and welcoming environment for all students.
  • Classroom Visits—Members often serve as role model speakers in classes at Michigan Tech
  • Recruiting Visits—Several members return to Michigan Tech to recruit students to work in their companies
  • Advisory Boards—Many members also serve on corporate or other advisory boards to the department from which they graduated
  • Workshops/Seminars—PCA members sometimes lead seminars that are open to all members of the Michigan Tech community; these sessions cover topics that range from opportunities for women in different fields to gender issues on the job to how to make the most of your time at Michigan Tech
  • Dine With Industry—Many PCA members attend the Society of Women Engineer's Dine With Industry event to serve as role models and answer questions/provide insights to members of SWE
  • Women of Promise—Each year, the PCA helps induct undergraduate women at Michigan Tech into their Women of Promise Program
  • Visits with High School Students—PCA members sometimes carry the Michigan Tech message to high schools or college fairs in their areas
  • Alumni Events—Members attend a variety of Michigan Tech Alumni events, both on and off campus, including the annual Alumni Reunion
  • Regional Michigan Tech Events—PCA members also attend special Michigan Tech events like sport or SAE competitions that are held near them.