Travis Keller switches focus from students to alumni

Travis Keller, long-time Director of Student Life, transitioned to a new job as the Director of Alumni Relations last month.

Keller, a 2002 graduate, said he hopes to “move the alumni program forward” and is especially excited to do so at MVNU, “a place that has deeply shaped me.”

Keller’s first priority will be to develop a strategic plan for Alumni Relations. This will involve connecting with

alumni council members, class representatives, and faculty and staff alumni.

He hopes to encourage a broader group of alumni to get involved and better “shape the alumni experience.”

Keller already has strong connections with a number of former students through his work as a pastor, resident director and director of student life.

This position also will include traveling to parts of the country with concentrated alumni populations, planning Homecoming and creating alumni events.

“There are many things ahead and a lot of work to do!” Keller said.

Although the new job will change his interaction with students, Keller said he plans to stay connected to the student body because “one of our roles as alumni is to invest in the student experience.”

Keller said he will miss “the close relationships developed with so many incredible students” and his involvement with student leaders on campus.

Vice President for Student Life Dr. Lanette Sessink praised Keller for “his connection and compassion he has been able to share with our traditional students.” Her weekly conversations with Keller were always meaningful, especially those where they “dream[t] future goals for MVNU,” Sessink said.

In his new position, Keller will “add a lot of knowledge as it relates to new and creative ways in communicating with alumni,” she said.

Sessink isn’t the only one excited about Travis Keller’s new position. His daughter, Kyla, said she is excited to be able to travel with her dad to go visit alumni.

He had been worried about her perspective since “she has always called me ‘the student director.’ Basically, she thinks that I run the entire university all by myself, which is pretty awesome.” from a dad’s perspective,” Keller said.