Integrated AlumNI Chairperson's Letter
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with immense gratitude and optimism for the future of our organisation. Thanks to the generous funding from the IEF, we were able to bring on Amelia as our Project and Development Manager, a move that has propelled Integrated AlumNI to engage more with current and future members.
Our Achievements
Impact Officer: The impact of having a dedicated Project and Development Manager cannot be overstated. Amelia has brought strategic thinking, a results-oriented approach, and a fresh perspective that perfectly complements the skills of our Board.
Membership Growth and Engagement: We've seen a remarkable 25% increase in our membership, surpassing our 12% target. This growth is a direct result of targeted social media campaigns, having the space to publish blogs on our websites, establishing a bi-monthly newsletter and outreach to integrated schools. Our social media engagement has also risen by 12%, keeping us on track to meet our 10% target in Q4.
Enhanced Member Value: Highlights included our 10th Birthday Party and an informative session on the NI Affairs Committee's investigation into integrated education. And establishing two annual events the first is establishing, Education Unplugged a series which brings people from different backgrounds to explore different life perspectives. We hosted the event in the historic Crumlin Road Gaol. Our guests were former DUP MP Ian Paisley Junior and former hunger striker and blanket protester Pat Sheehan MLA from Sinn Féin. Then establishing the Inaugural Baroness May Blood Memorial Lecture, held on May 30th, 2024, brought together an esteemed panel of members of the NIWC to honour the life and legacy of Baroness May Blood, a remarkable woman who dedicated herself to promoting women's rights, peacebuilding efforts, and integrated education in Northern Ireland.
Strengthened Advocacy: We've made significant strides in our advocacy efforts. We submitted a comprehensive response to the Integrated Education Strategy as well as a report and presented it at the NI Affairs Committee Integrated Education Westminister inquiry. An advocacy sub-group has been established to coordinate campaigning, with Adam McGibbon being made an advisor to the board of trustees for advocacy and outreach.
Improved Administration and Sustainability: We've streamlined our administrative processes and implemented a CRM system to track membership and engage more effectively. With a new website design, we are looking to improve every aspect of engagement.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, we have exciting plans to build on this year's successes:
Growing Our Network: We are committed to expanding our reach and engaging with more individuals and organisations passionate about integrated education. This growth will allow us to amplify our voice and increase our influence in promoting integrated education across Northern Ireland. Many of our members and potential members live outside Northern Ireland; we are exploring ways to reach this group.
Enhancing Advocacy Efforts: We plan to significantly increase our engagement in advocacy work. By leveraging our growing network and expertise, we aim to play a more prominent role in shaping policies and public opinion around integrated education.
Expanding Our Reach: In 2025, we plan to host an event outside of Belfast. This initiative reflects our commitment to engaging with communities across Northern Ireland and ensuring that our work has a truly region-wide impact.
AlumNI Youth Panel: As mentioned earlier, we're developing an AlumNI youth panel to ensure young voices are heard and to create a pipeline for future trustees.
A Note of Thanks
I want to extend my deepest thanks to the IEF for providing the funding that made this progress possible. The contribution has allowed us to lay solid groundwork through the Project and Development Manager role. I'm very optimistic that this foundation will catapult us to greater impact and influence in the years ahead.
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to Amelia, our Project and Development Manager, for her outstanding contributions this past year. Amelia's hard work, dedication, and innovative approach have driven our organisation forward. Her efforts in community outreach, social media engagement, and strategic planning have significantly enhanced our impact and set a strong foundation for our future growth. Amelia, your commitment to our cause and your tireless efforts are truly appreciated.
I would like to take a moment to extend our gratitude on behalf of the Trustees to Adam McGibbon for his exceptional leadership in paving the way for the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee inquiry into integrated education. Adam's tireless efforts and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this crucial issue to the forefront of political discourse. His work has not only raised the profile of integrated education but has also created a valuable opportunity for our organisation to contribute meaningfully to this important discussion.
Equally important, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to my fellow trustees. Without their unwavering support, dedication, and expertise, we would not be able to do the important work we do. Each trustee brings unique skills and perspectives to our board, and their collective wisdom and commitment are the backbone of our organisation. Your volunteer efforts, time, and energy are the driving force behind our success in promoting integrated education.
Most critically, we've made great strides in community outreach and leveraging social media. This work has successfully started attracting more young members to join our ranks, which is essential for ensuring the longevity of our organisation and our integrated education mission.
Closing Thoughts
I speak on behalf of our entire Board of Trustees in expressing our deep appreciation to all our members, supporters, and partners. We look forward to updating you on our continued progress. Our future success will directly result from supporters like yourselves believing in our mission and work.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to integrated education. Together, we are making a lasting difference.
Sincerely,
Dr. Matthew O'Neill Chair, Integrated AlumNI
