Wherever they go, from São Paulo to Berlin to Chengdu, Amy McCloskey and Jason Kane find the same thing: Pitt alumni who are eager to connect, contribute, and carry their Panther pride across borders. Their experiences have helped fuel the University’s effort to bring together alumni and build stronger, more meaningful connections worldwide.
Kane (UPJ ’00) serves as the Director of Alumni Networks and International Programs for the University. He works with the alumni association and schools to develop regional and national strategies to engage and grow the global network.
McCloskey (SPIA ’18G, SHRS ’95) serves as the Director of Alumni Relations for the School of Business. She cultivates national and international alumni communities and builds connections that expand the school’s global presence and reputation.
Meeting Alumni Where They Are
“Meeting alumni where they are—geographically, professionally, and in their life stage—is essential because it keeps Pitt relevant and accessible long after graduation,” say Kane and McCloskey.
The Pitt alumni community is diverse and global; by engaging graduates in ways that fit their current needs, timelines, and interests, Pitt strengthens their connection to the University and makes participation meaningful rather than obligatory.
It also acknowledges that alumni engagement is not one-size-fits-all. Some alumni are ready to volunteer or mentor, some want to connect socially or professionally, and others simply want to stay informed.
When Pitt meets alumni where they are, it demonstrates respect for their time and experiences while creating more authentic, lasting relationships. When alumni feel seen, valued, and included—no matter where they live or what path they’re on—they are more likely to give of their time, talent, and treasure.
Lessons From a Global Network
Traveling and meeting alumni around the world has expanded McCloskey’s and Kane’s understanding of Pitt’s reach and influence. They note that it becomes clear very quickly that Pitt isn’t just a collection of campuses in Pittsburgh—it’s a global community of leaders, innovators, and changemakers who carry their Pitt experience with them wherever they go.
Hearing firsthand how alumni apply their education in different cultural, business, and social environments reinforces the strength and adaptability of a Pitt degree. It also highlights how deeply connected many alumni feel to the city of Pittsburgh and the impact it has had on their personal lives, even when they’re thousands of miles away.
Many alumni share stories of meeting their significant others at Pitt or having their children born in Pittsburgh—reminders that their connection to the University is woven into some of the most meaningful moments of their lives.
Whether they are meeting someone in Prague or São Paulo, the pride alumni express in being part of the Pitt community is remarkably consistent. These experiences have shown McCloskey and Kane that Pitt’s global network isn’t just large—it’s active, generous, and eager to engage. Every conversation, regional gathering, and international visit underscores the idea that Pitt’s impact is truly worldwide.
Alumni such as Aditya Somani (MBA ’97) often remind them that the best things happen when you slow down, appreciate where you are, and enjoy the moment—especially through stories of unexpected career turns or friendships formed by simply being present instead of sprinting ahead.
Global Moments That Stay With Us
McCloskey remembers watching Ivana Goossen (MBA ’09) reimagine an abandoned transformer substation into a world-class museum and then welcoming Prague-area alumni into that remarkable space for receptions. She also recalls former Ambassador Mmasekgoa Masire-Mwamba’s (MBA ’90) warm welcome to Pitt representatives and alumni at the Botswana Embassy in Berlin—a powerful reminder of how Pitt’s global network opens doors, literally and figuratively.
Kane remembers witnessing Emeritus Chancellor Gallagher meet the President of Colombia, and experiencing the face dance in Chengdu—Bian Lian, the Sichuan opera art of changing masks in a split second.
As frequent travelers, both have go-to tips: Kane only brings a carry-on, and McCloskey keeps all meetings, events, lodging information, and travel details organized in OneNote to avoid searching across multiple platforms.
What’s Next for Pitt Abroad
When asked where they would like to visit next on behalf of Pitt, both McCloskey and Kane had the same answer: “Ireland.”
Kane notes that a visit would showcase Pitt’s international reach while also highlighting UPMC’s growing medical presence there—another example of how the University’s expertise resonates globally.
McCloskey hopes to confirm whether networking really does go better with a pint of Guinness.
Pitt Football will be visiting Ireland in 2027. Keep an eye on your email for more information about alumni meet ups around the game.