Chapter Leader Role

or, Taking the Oath


The chapter leader is a tireless volunteer with unlimited hours to devote to the UW cause. Well, not exactly, right? You have full-time jobs and lots of demands on your time. Sometimes being so darned spirited can be really tiring, but we don’t want you to feel that being a chapter leader is a burden. It should be fun! As Badger ambassadors, you’re charged with keeping school spirit alive in your hometowns, so raise your right hands and repeat after us: “A chapter leader guides a team of local volunteers who build alumni connection and engagement with the university.”

A chapter leader is committed to:

  • Connecting local alumni and community to UW-Madison, WAA and each other
    • Understanding and supporting UW-Madison and WAA’s missions, brand and desired alumni experience.
    • Communicating regularly with local alumni, chapter volunteers and WAA.
    • Recruiting new members and volunteers
  • Fostering a chapter environment and program that engages a wide range of alumni
    • Offering diverse programming and maintaining an inclusive and welcoming environment.
    • Providing a high level of service to alumni.
    • Being open to try new things to better engage alumni
  • Leading the local chapter board
    • Enlisting and building other leaders, sharing responsibility, delegating, and operating with integrity and respect.
    • Learning to be a better leader and participating in WAA chapter leader development.
  • Overseeing an effective and efficient chapter operation
    • Using tools, databases, and reporting mechanisms provided in chapter leader Web site.
    • Assuring local operations meet expectations and standards for a WAA chapter.
    • Leveraging local and WAA resources to support the chapter program.

Characteristics and Skills of a Great Chapter Leader

  • A passion for the UW and WAA.
  • Committed to a chapter-WAA relationship to serve local alumni.
  • Good at making personal contacts with people of different ages and backgrounds.
  • Interested in building their own and others’ leadership skills.
  • Willing to commit energy and time to doing a good job.
  • Well-connected and respected in the local community.
  • Energetic, innovative, and willing to try new ideas and learn new things.
  • Able to speak well in public.
  • Strong organizational skills.

        Coaches Cruise