Editor’s note: The work and impact of NC State Alumni Regional Networks is made possible through generous donors who support the Alumni Impact Fund.

NC State’s regional network volunteers instill Pack pride across the country, creating opportunities for alumni to connect, give back and celebrate what it means to be Red and White for life. 

These volunteers organize networking socials, service projects, student send-offs and game-day gatherings, creating and preserving spaces for alumni to stay engaged. They serve as ambassadors for NC State both locally and nationally, keeping the Pack spirit strong no matter the distance.

Nearly 150 volunteers serve as the heartbeat of regional networks, organizing events that keep Wolfpack pride thriving in communities nationwide.

We sat down with network volunteer Alan Keith, leader of the Wake County/Triangle Regional Network, for a Q&A to learn more about how he gives back to the Pack.

Q: Tell us about your time at NC State.

A: I came to NC State in the fall of 1978 as an undecided engineering major. I was from a small high school in a small town. I ended up choosing civil engineering as my major, having been interested in building since an early age.

I lived on campus in Owen and really enjoyed the life on campus, particularly the friends I made. I participated in intramurals and never missed football or basketball home games. A group of us from Owen were fixtures behind the State bench in Reynolds from the end of the 1981 season through 1983. It was amazing to sit within earshot of Coach Valvano and to see the goings on of the bench.

I was seriously focused on completing my degree and preparing for a job after college, and I graduated in May 1982 with a B.S. in civil engineering. There were very few jobs available at the time, but through relentless pursuit, I was fortunate enough to land a job at a consulting firm in Raleigh.

Since my employment was not guaranteed, I had applied to the engineering graduate school as a senior. Since I was going to stay in Raleigh, I was able to work with my employer to attend graduate classes part-time while simultaneously working full-time from 1982 to 1986. I eventually graduated with a master’s in civil engineering in 1986 and earned my professional engineer’s license shortly thereafter. 

Q: What first inspired you to get involved with the regional network and what keeps you coming back?

A: I became involved as a volunteer just after my daughters graduated and became NC State alumni as well. Since we lived outside of Cary and were season ticket holders for multiple sports, we were always around the university.

I have a deep love for all things NC State and thought as an empty-nester it would be good to give back. I had been a member of the Alumni Association since graduation and working with the Association staff and meeting fellow alumni has been very rewarding. I love the opportunity to build NC State and its community.

Q: What do you do in your role as a regional network volunteer? 

A: During the COVID-19 lockdowns, the alumni regional activities came to a halt and the former Wake County leadership chose to leave during this time. My name was still associated with the regional network when things restarted around 2023, and I was contacted to step in as a leader for the Wake County/Triangle Regional Network. I have been the leader of the group and its activities since that time. 

Q: What type of time commitment is involved in being a volunteer?

A: The time commitment is up to the individual. Our group has a monthly planning call to go along with quarterly Alumni Town Hall calls. We try to offer around one event of some type per month. Volunteers choose to participate in events that fit their schedule or interests. Most events are a few hours in length – such as social gatherings, service projects, tours or virtual events.

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• Support the Pack by serving with regional networks, affinity groups or generational volunteer communities.
• Serve NC State through membership on a board or council.
• Engage local alumni by hosting events throughout the year.
• Promote NC State’s philanthropic initiatives by sharing fundraising campaigns with their personal networks.

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Q: What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?

A: Being a volunteer brings you back to NC State and grants you an opportunity to meet other alumni, both young and old. You can reconnect with your college and participate in a wide variety of events hosted by the Alumni Association. As a volunteer, you are closer to all things NC State.

Q: As you reflect, is there a moment from this role you’re particularly proud of? 

A: I’m so proud that we have restarted the Wake County regional group and have a calendar full of new and engaging events. We are getting more volunteers every year and fantastic participation in events.

I went from a volunteer simply assisting in executing events to leading a wonderful group of volunteers and planning out the course of the group. It’s been a challenge, but I hope my volunteering is moving the group in a wonderful direction.

Q: My Wolfpack Why Is: 

A: I have a deep love for the university and what my degree did for me. I am retiring after a forty-three-year career in consulting engineering, made possible by my time at NC State.

My wife, daughters and a son-in-law are all NC State alumni. We’re a Wolfpack family! I cherish the memories of my time on campus and want to work to give others an opportunity for an equally great experience.

The Alumni Impact Fund

NC State’s Alumni Impact Fund supports opportunities like these and elevates the university’s global reputation. Gifts to the Alumni Impact Fund open doors across NC State, ensuring the Think and Do spirit can be applied to improve alumni communities. From supporting student initiatives that shape future leaders to fostering career resources that enable alumni to excel, to regional activities for alumni and friends, generosity helps the entire Wolfpack keep driving.