Scott Barbrack Highlights the Power of College Loyalty in Building Lifelong Networks

New York City, New York May 12, 2025 (Issuewire.com) Senior Managing Director and Rutgers University graduate Scott Barbrack is raising awareness about the long-term value of staying connected to your college community. Drawing on decades of experience in finance and philanthropy, Barbrack is encouraging alumni from all backgrounds to see their alma maters not just as a memorybut as an enduring network.

We all talk about college as the place where we found ourselves, but many people check out completely once they graduate, said Barbrack. What most dont realize is that your school isnt just in your pastit can still shape your future.

Barbrack, who graduated from Rutgers University in 1987 and remains an active supporter of its athletics and alumni initiatives, points to studies showing the long-term impact of college affiliation:

• According to a 2023 Gallup study, college graduates who maintain alumni connections are 72% more likely to report high well-being.
  
  
• Networking through alumni groups increases career mobility by up to 50%, per the National Bureau of Economic Research.
  
  
• A LinkedIn report found that shared university affiliation is one of the top three drivers of cold outreach success.
  
  

Ive made connections through Rutgers that shaped my career, helped me make smart investment decisions, and even led to friendships outside of work, said Barbrack. Theres real power in staying plugged in.

What You Can Do Right Now

Barbrack is calling on fellow alumninot just from Rutgers, but from colleges and universities everywhereto take simple, personal steps to reconnect:

• Join your schools alumni network or LinkedIn group
  
  
• Attend a local or virtual eventeven just once a year
  
  
• Reach out to younger alumni or current students to offer advice or mentorship
  
  
• Support a team, club, or program you cared about
  
  
• Wear your school gear in public, start conversationsit signals pride and builds unexpected bonds

Its not about writing a check or making a big gesture, Barbrack said. Its about taking one small step to remind yourselfand othersthat youre still part of something.

He emphasizes that you dont need to be wealthy or well-connected to make a difference. Your story, your time, your attentionthats valuable. Thats how we strengthen communities.

Barbrack also noted that alumni involvement isnt just good for the schoolits good for you. The older you get, the more you realize that strong relationships matter. And alumni networks are ready-made for that.