The 31 Ambassadors are made up of 31 hand-selected Â̲èÖ±²¥ students that serve as the official hosts for University & Alumni Events. The"31ers" work to increase student awareness of the Â̲èÖ±²¥ Alumni Association by hosting traditional events on campus. The 31 Ambassadors is sponsored by the Â̲èÖ±²¥ Alumni Association and is largely self-sustaining, with additional funding coming from the generous contributions of benefactors and the Â̲èÖ±²¥ Alumni Association.
The 31 Ambassadors organization, known originally as NLU31, was formed in 1981 (during NLU's 50th anniversary) after several students and alumni recognized a special need to create an awareness of the activities and benefits provided through the NLU Alumni Association. Due to the fact Northeast Louisiana University was established in 1931, the charter members of the organization adopted the name "NLU31." Today, we use the name 31 Ambassadors.
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The purpose of the 31 Ambassadors is: to serve as ambassadors for Â̲èÖ±²¥ and student representatives for its Alumni Association, to serve as the official host at selected university and alumni-related events, to sponsor activities to increase student awareness of the Â̲èÖ±²¥ Alumni Association, and to instill the spirit of volunteerism and philanthropy among students and future alumni.
31 Ambassadors offers exclusive leadership and networking opportunities to its members. As student representatives of Â̲èÖ±²¥, 31 Ambassadors staff and attend student-organized and alumni events that offerÌýface-to-face contact with influential alumni and community members in their respective fields.ÌýPersonal development and leadership workshops are incorporated into 31 Ambassador meetings three times per semester. Past guest speakers have included: President Berry, Â̲èÖ±²¥ Softball Coach Molly Fichtner, & Ouachita Valley Federal Credit Union Assistant VP of Lending Marlon Owens. Upcoming speakers include DJ Davis, Ouachita Parish School Board, and Alberta Green, ABG Professional Development Solutions.Ìý
31 Ambassadors is the only RSO requested to assist with the President's Box during football games, where President Berry personally invites guests to attend the game in his private suite. Past guests have included: ULS System President - Dr. James Henderson, Lt. Governor of Louisiana Billy Nungesser, City of Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis, Senator Katrina Jackson, Joey Trappey, owner of Trapps, Crawfish City, & Field House, and many others.Ìý
These events and moreÌýoffer members unique opportunities to connect and network with highly-respected alumni. TheÌýnew 31 Mentorship Program connects Ambassadors to the Alumni Association Board of Director Mentors.Ìý
"Oozeball," commonly known as mud volleyball, has been a Spring Fever Week tradition since 1988. The event's purpose is to promote camaraderie among students and increase student awareness about 31 Ambassadors. The Oozeball tournament takes place behind Malone Stadium on the last day of Spring Fever Week. Oozeball brackets are available for women, men, co-rec, and faculty/staff. This is one of our favorite traditions!
The 31 Ambassadors plan and organize all aspects of the tournament and help the day-of to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.
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Since 1984, the 31 Ambassadors and the Alumni Association have hosted the chili cook-off, started by Tom Deal, Frank Elkin III, and Don Weems. Traditionally held on the last home game of the football season, teams get together to decide who makes the best chili in Monroe! This event is open to alumni, students, and community members.Ìý
The 31 Ambassadors plan and promote the event to students and alumni. On the day of the event, the 31 Ambassadors assist with helping participants, social media coverage, judging, and scoring.Ìý
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Hawktoberfest is one of our newer traditions. Hawktoberfest is an opportunity for Â̲èÖ±²¥ students, alumni, and community members to come together to enjoy different craft beers from local breweries, food, games, and live music. Our mocktail bar is open for those under 21, or that choose not to consume alcohol!
31 Ambassadors are responsible for allÌýplanning and promotion of the event to students and alumni. On the day of the event, the 31 Ambassadors assist with set up, social media coverage, attendee engagement, mocktail & hydration stations, and more!Ìý
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The 31 Ambassadors come together to design an exclusive T-shirt for the student body. 31 Ambassadors encourage students to bring a shirt from a different university or college to swap it out for the limited edition exclusive Â̲èÖ±²¥ T-shirt! This idea began as a way to promote school spirit and pride among the Â̲èÖ±²¥ community. The 31 Ambassadors are responsible for designing and editing the T-shirt, organizing swap dates & times, and promoting the event to the student body. All swapped shirts are donated to a local thrift store.Ìý
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Grad Finale is hosted to help graduating students prepare for their commencement ceremony and life after graduation. At this event, students can purchase their cap & and gown, take professional graduation portraits, and meet with representatives from Financial Aid, Career Services, Grad School, and the Alumni Association.Ìý
31 Ambassadors are responsible for planning & promoting Grad Finale, in addition to assisting attendees with anything they may need.Ìý
Applications for the 2025 Ambassadors will open in November 2024.Ìý