Director of Alumni Engagement & Outreach
Tara Thomason was nominated by Aimee McDonald for P.R.O.P.S. Recognition. McDonald said “Tara is always a ray of sunshine and wealth of knowledge. Working in Alumni has allowed Tara to have different roles, but her latest role with Student Engagement is one that truly shows Tara's passion about helping students. She is genuinely excited to be able to speak to families about A-State. She is a recruiter, and although this is not truly part of her job description, A-State is lucky to have her! She offers ideas and suggestions on how to make our processes, not just in the Alumni Association, but also in every aspect of the University she touches, better. She truly has a heartfelt WANT to HELP our students succeed.”
P.R.O.P.S. subcommittee members Catherine Beaver, Andrew Nolley, and Madeline Ragland spoke with Tara to learn more about her and her experience at A-State.
What do you like most about A-State?
What I like most is being able to help students and the community. Seeing people come to us to pursue their education, gain that knowledge they need in that degree, then go off into the world to do big things. It’s really rewarding for me to able to have a very small part in working with students, whether that be through the Student Philanthropy Council or helping with any homecoming activities, just getting to have that interaction then see them go out into the world to do great things is really inspiring.
What do you wish everyone could know about your position?
The Alumni Engagement and Outreach position is a new role, and there are many people who come to me and ask questions about who to talk to. So, I wish people knew to utilize me more to be that connector with different departments on campus. I am an alum, as well as a former, current, and future parent of A-State students, so I really try my best to help. I don’t ever have all the answers, but I love and feel passionate about connecting, whether that be a parent or student. I want people to know I am someone they can reach out to for help.
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Honestly, I saw a movie years ago about Bora Bora, and I don’t know that I’m ever going to get there, but it looks absolutely amazing. That’s probably where I would choose to go.
The best advice I ever received was…
I’ve gotten lots of good advice! My grandmother taught me from an early age to never judge a man until you walked a mile in his shoes. I know that wasn’t original to her, but that was important advice; I really do try to view a situation based on the other person’s perspective. I think that is an important quality or skill to have is to be able to be empathetic for our fellow Red Wolves.
If you could describe yourself in one sentence…
I would consider myself to be friendly, caring, intentional, and sometimes goofy.
What is your most recent binge show?
The TV show “Younger.” I have had several people say I reminded them of one of the characters, so that’s what got me started watching it.
What music is playing in your car?
I’m old school and am still listening to the radio, so I’m an Air FM girl, 93.7. It’s encouraging, inspiring, and helps me to stay grounded and focused on what’s really important.
What event or experience led you to this career?
I have primarily worked in either healthcare or education, and when I learned about a position at my alma mater working with alumni, I was thrilled to jump at the chance. I was excited to come back to what I consider home. I was born in Jonesboro, my life started geographically close to the university, I have lots of family connected to A-State in small ways, but still felt a part of A-State. I feel fortunate and grateful to be a part of a team where we truly are family and care about each other. We work together to really try to do our best in providing engagement and activities for alumni.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
From the time I was a small child, I had family who had a place in Destin, FL, so that is my go-to beach. Any beach, honestly, but more importantly the gulf. It makes me feel so connected and grateful when I first step onto the sand and hear the waves. It just makes my soul feel connected and peaceful, and all your troubles have gone away. I’m grateful I’ve been able to raise my three children with that same experience.
