Converse University Announces New Director of Alumni Relations

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Spartanburg, SC – Inspired by her professional poise and passion for education, Converse University announced that Dr. Andrea Weatherman Kikkert, member of the Class of 2005, will serve as the new director of alumni relations. She will begin her duties remotely on January 15 before joining the Institutional Advancement staff on campus in early February.

“I’m very excited about returning to Converse as a staff member and contributing to my alma mater by celebrating the university’s past, present, and future with alumni,” said Kikkert, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in music from Converse. “I’ve benefited immensely from both my education at Converse and the support of fellow graduates over the years, and I look forward to bringing together alumni so we can continue to collaborate and grow long after commencement.”

For the past eighteen years, Kikkert has held professional positions primarily in higher education. She currently works as a visiting assistant professor of German at Hampden-Sydney College. Kikkert previously worked for Vanderbilt University, where she received her doctorate in German, and Bowling Green State University, where she received her master of arts in German.

“We are thrilled to have Andrea back on campus as a dynamic new staff member,” said Boone Hopkins, president of Converse. “Her foundations in program development and management, cross-cultural engagement, and public speaking will make her an effective advocate for Converse​ as she works to keep our alumni connected and engaged. Andrea’s expertise as a leader and educator will only continue to build upon the incredible work the Office of Alumni Relations is accomplishing under the leadership of Laura Chappell Bauknight.”

Bauknight, a member of the Class of 1987 who graciously agreed to serve as interim director of alumni relations in spring of 2023, will help Kikkert transition into her new role.

As the Director of Alumni Relations, Kikkert will work to engage alumni in the life of the university and act as Converse’s liaison to the Alumni Association Board. Kikkert will also be instrumental in the planning and execution of alumni events, such as Reunion Weekend​ on April 19-20, 2024.

About Converse University
Converse University empowers students to become transformative leaders who see clearly, decide wisely, and act justly. Converse was founded in 1889 by citizens of Spartanburg, SC, who aimed to create an educational experience for women, and in fall 2020 it welcomed its first undergraduate co-educational incoming class. The University encompasses the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Data Science, the School of the Arts, The Graduate School, and the Converse College for Women. Converse students experience deep scholarship, transformative mentorship, experiential learning, and wonderful support for and belief in each other. Through this unique formula, Converse is a creator of opportunity for its students through a personalized education that also includes the professional and technical skills graduates need to be successful in their careers.