Honoring the Journey

 

By Jane France

 

My time serving as board president of the UWAA has been deeply meaningful — not only because of the work accomplished but also because of what the UWAA represents to my family and me. The Alumni Association has been part of my story for as long as I can remember, and leading it felt less like stepping into a role and more like continuing a legacy rooted in connection, service, pride and fun. 

Throughout my presidency, I had the privilege of working with an exceptional UWAA team, dedicated board members, alumni volunteers and campus partners who share a belief in the value of alumni engagement. Together, we focused on strengthening the UWAA’s role within the university and expanding opportunities for every alum to engage in meaningful ways.

One of the most significant accomplishments during this time was the transition of the UWAA’s reporting line to the Office of the President. This change reinforced the importance of alumni engagement at the highest levels of the university and strengthened alignment with UW’s broader mission. At the same time, we worked to deepen relationships across campus and increase collaboration with university leadership and academic departments.

We also saw incredible growth in alumni engagement. The UWAA alumni network program now includes more than 20 active networks connecting over 2,000 members across regions, professions and shared interests. Network programming and events have grown significantly, bringing alumni together across the country with shared pride and community.

Homecoming, one of my personal favorites, remains one of UW’s most beloved traditions. It was especially rewarding to see increased participation during my tenure. The addition of a new Alumni Lunch event and re-energized celebration for the 50th year reunion class created more opportunities for alumni to reconnect and celebrate their UW experience, contributing to outstanding energy throughout Homecoming Week. Not even last year’s hailstorm could stop us from celebrating! 

The growth of the UWAA itself is a highlight. I have been grateful to welcome new board members who bring fresh perspectives and a deep commitment to the university and our alumni as well as additional members of the UWAA staff whose passion and commitment are crucial to the success of this organization. I often quip that we are all passengers on Jack Tennant’s rocket ship. While that is a whimsical way to describe our growth, it is true. Jack and his staff have led this organization forward in a remarkable way and will continue to do so. I am so fortunate to have been president of this organization during this time of evolution and success.

My connection to the UWAA continues to be deeply personal. My parents, Dwight and Candace “Candy” France, served on the UWAA Board of Directors, as did my uncle Sherrod France and aunt Jana Cook. In fact, my mom, aunt and uncle all served as UWAA board president. I worked for the UWAA as a student employee, and it was while I was working for UWAA that I met my husband, Ross Hinschberger. One of the highlights of having worked at the UWAA is the fact that I remain close to many board members and volunteers whom I met nearly 20 years ago.

As I step into the role of past president, I do so with gratitude and confidence in the UWAA’s future. I am honored to welcome Joe Evers as the incoming board president, and I look forward to supporting him as he leads us in this next chapter. Serving as board president has been a true honor, and I remain deeply thankful for the people, relationships and shared pride that define the UW Alumni Association. Go Pokes!

 

Reflecting on Jane France’s leadership and how it has helped shape a new era of alumni engagement, UWAA Executive Director Jack Tennant says: “Under Jane’s leadership as president, the past two years have been focused on expanding opportunities for all alumni to connect with their alma mater. I can’t thank Jane enough for her and her family’s commitment to helping make that vision a reality. For decades, the France family has given their time, talent and treasure to UW, and Jane’s leadership and support the last two years have meant the world to us.”