If your inbox pings with a message from someone named Ava or Sara, don’t be surprised. They’re the newest “faces” of ¾«¶«´«Ã½ University and Cambridge College — though you won’t find them walking across campus or sitting in a classroom.
Ava and Sara are Virtual Engagement Officers (VEOs), created to help alumni, friends, and community members stay more connected to their alma mater. Sara represents Cambridge College, and Ava represents ¾«¶«´«Ã½. Both were developed with Givzey’s Version2.ai, an innovative platform now being used at nearly 100 colleges and universities nationwide.
So, what exactly will Ava and Sara do? Think of them as friendly digital guides, reaching out with invitations and opportunities tailored to each person’s interests. They might encourage an alum to speak with a student, invite a graduate to tour campus, or suggest ways to get involved with an alumni council or committee.
“Our advancement team is proud to introduce Sara and Ava,” said MK Young, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “This initiative expands our ability to engage with more members of our community in ways that feel truly meaningful, ensuring that every connection reflects what matters most to them.”
Adam P. Zinkievich G’13, a ¾«¶«´«Ã½ graduate and Director of Annual Giving and Constituent Engagement, sees the benefit in making connections more convenient. “Because these communications can happen on each person’s schedule — not just during the typical workday — we can create stronger, more responsive connections than ever before,” he said.
Community members can expect to hear from Ava and Sara in the days ahead. Their goal isn’t to replace the personal touch but to make it easier for more people to stay connected — whenever and however it works best for them.
Want to meet them? Ava is waiting , and Sara can be found .