Houston,
31
March
2021
|
08:54 AM
America/Chicago

Amy H. Youngblood, M.Ed. Joins University of St. Thomas as Director of Alumni Relations

Amy H. Youngblood, M.Ed.

The University of St. Thomas announces the appointment of Amy H. Youngblood, M.Ed., as its new Director of Alumni Relations. Youngblood joined UST in late March where she works in the Marketing and University Relations Department.

Youngblood’s Wealth of Experience

Youngblood’s career highlights include positions in higher education, health care and the hospitality industry. She previously served as the director of Alumni Relations and Advancement at Houston Baptist University, was director of Alumni Relations at Concordia University in Austin, Texas, worked as a development officer for Texas Children’s Hospital and was in event management for Hilton Hotels.

Youngblood has worked in alumni relations for 10 years at two faith-based universities. “When I saw the posting for the director of Alumni Relations, I initially thought I was drawn to it because I was familiar with it,” she said. “However, as I was beginning discussions with UST, I became energized and passionate about engaging students and alumni. I realized that it is not just something I felt familiar with, it is a calling. I consider it a ministry and feel so fortunate to be able to serve God in my professional life and further the Catholic mission.”

“After many months of searching, we have found the ideal person to lead our Alumni Relations Department into a bold new future,” Vice President for Marketing and University Relations, Jeff Olsen, said.

UST’s Alumnus, First Happy Students

UST has more than 25,000 alumni with many living in the Houston area. She replaces Carla E. Alsandor, Ph.D, who held the position for two and a half years before being promoted to Senior Director of USTMAX Center, a new micro-campus in downtown Conroe that serves students in Montgomery County.

“Now that my interim position at the USTMAX Center has transitioned into the permanent role of Senior Director, it is my pleasure to welcome our new Director of Alumni Relations,” Alsandor said. “She brings with her a depth of experience and enthusiasm that I’m sure our alumni will welcome and appreciate.”

Youngblood’s Philosophy

Youngblood believes that “a happy student is an engaged alumnus. Student success is essential for alumni engagement,” she said. “It is my philosophy for the Alumni Association to be a part of the student’s journey from day one. Being a part of students’ journeys from the start, and walking with them through graduation, first jobs, marriages, and babies is really unique and special.”

Current alumni also have their personal connection to their alma mater, and it is different for everyone. “It is my job to find the connection and to provide opportunities for former students to engage,” Youngblood said. “And, when they do, we will greet them with hospitality.”

Youngblood’s Education and Family

Youngblood received her Master of Education from Concordia University in Austin and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication from the University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida. Youngblood is a member of the Association of Healthcare Professionals and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Youngblood is married to Brent Youngblood, who is an associate principal at Mayde Creek High School in Katy ISD. They have two boys, David, 6 years old and Daniel, 4.

Please join us in welcoming our newest Celt to the family.