Our alumni volunteers give generously of their time and talents each year to enrich the global University of Miami community, from lending their expertise to our national boards to organizing community initiatives and mentoring the next generation of Canes. This April, as we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we hear from six volunteer leaders about why they volunteer and what the U means to them. In spotlighting these volunteers, we honor all of them.
Alumni Gloria Estefan, Jon Secada, and many more gathered as the Frost School of Music celebrated Shelton G. Berg’s changemaking vision and achievements in almost two decades as dean with a gala event at the Knight Center for Music Innovation.
More than six decades after their doors opened, and nearly 40 years since they were designated residential colleges, Mahoney and Pearson are being demolished this summer as the University continues to implement its housing strategic plan. Earlier this month, students, alumni, and friends gathered to honor the memories, milestones, and community moments that have shaped Mahoney and Pearson over the years.
Alumnus Gabe Elias, who once designed Formula 1 race cars, is now part of a venture that promises to revolutionize battery design and power. Read more >
Alumnus Luke Fisher turned a global upbringing and University of Miami education into a career with the U.S. Department of State, culminating in his role protecting Team USA at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Read more >
One Day, One U, Ongoing Impact
The University’s seventh annual Giving Day wrapped at the end of March with over 4,100 donors contributing more than $5.3 million across the University’s 12 schools and colleges, student organizations, UHealth, and more. Matching challenges helped magnify the impact. Giving Day is more than a fun annual tradition for the University—it is a bold statement of belief in our students, our mission, and the future we’re building together.
Join the Tampa Canes at Topgolf St. Petersburg for a fun, relaxed evening of networking with fellow University of Miami alumni and friends. This casual social gathering is all about making connections with Canes from across the Tampa Bay area, strengthening relationships, and enjoying time together in a great setting.
Join the Southwest Florida Canes at the Naples Pier Beach Cleanup as we help protect our oceans, wildlife, and coastal communities. Following Hurricane Milton, these local efforts are more important than ever. Please bring a reusable water bottle and wear comfortable clothing. Cleanup tools, sunblock, a water refill station, and snacks will be provided. Advance registration is required.
Join the D.C. Canes for the Anacostia Watershed Society’s annual Earth Day Cleanup, the organization’s largest volunteer event dedicated to restoring the Anacostia River and its tributaries. Volunteers will pick up litter at sites throughout the watershed, with supplies provided and roles available for both general volunteers and community site leaders.
Join the Houston Canes as powerhouse guest vocalists Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw team up with the Houston Symphony to deliver massive, sweeping renditions of legendary R&B, soul, and pop anthems from icons like Elvis, Prince, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Diana Ross. It’s the perfect excuse to dress up, hear some incredible music, and connect with fellow alumni for a spectacular night out!
Miami Canes: Meet and Greet with Finesse Mitchell, B.S.C. ’95
Join the Miami Canes for an exclusive meet and greet with University of Miami alumnus Finesse Mitchell as he brings his current tour to South Florida. A former “Saturday Night Live” cast member, Mitchell is widely recognized for his unforgettable characters and dynamic comedic style that has made him a familiar face and voice in entertainment.
Palm Beach County Canes: Spotlight on Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Miami
Join your Palm Beach County Canes, together with fellow University of Miami alumni and friends, for a night of networking, professional development, and an insightful conversation. We will learn how innovation and entrepreneurship have expanded on the main campus in recent years as we hear from representatives of initiatives such as USTAAR, the Cane Angel Network, and Entrepreneur-In-Residence.
Join the Philadelphia Canes as we come together to care for the Lemon Hill area in Fairmount Park. Our efforts will include working on the Fountain Garden and Slopes Restoration Project, which involves the long-term restoration of the garden bed, stairway, and slopes surrounding the defunct fountain at Lemon Hill. Please wear clothes suitable for gardening; all necessary tools and materials will be provided.
Grab your bowling shoes and join the D.C. Canes for a laid-back night at Pinstripes Bethesda! Enjoy a few friendly frames, tasty bites, and plenty of laughs as you mix and mingle with fellow Canes in a lively, welcoming setting.
Broward County Canes: Social Networking at Tap42 Davie
Take a break from your day and join the Broward County Canes for an evening networking with fellow Canes. We'll socialize and make connections as we foster a shared affinity for the University and strengthen professional and personal relationships.
Join the University of Miami Black Alumni Society and the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs for the Senior Mwambo Ceremony, a longstanding University of Miami tradition that honors the achievements and heritage of our graduates and their families. The guest speaker this year is Amaka Ubaka, B.S.C. ’09, an Emmy-winning news anchor at WHDH-TV in Boston who has been named one of the 100 most influential Bostonians by Boston Magazine.
Palm Beach County Canes: Day of Service at Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue
Join the Palm Beach County Canes for the 2026 Canes Day of Service at the Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue’s new facility in Loxahatchee. Volunteers will socialize with the rescue animals by walking, exercising, cleaning, and providing companionship. For those interested in helping with larger tasks, there are many opportunities on site to assist with more substantial projects including painting, flooring, and heavy cleaning.
Join the Tampa Canes for an exclusive meet and greet with University of Miami alumnus Finesse Mitchell as he brings his current tour to Florida. A former “Saturday Night Live” cast member, Mitchell is widely recognized for his unforgettable characters and dynamic comedic style that has made him a familiar face and voice in entertainment.
Join the Chicago Canes for Canes Developing Chicago, a panel discussion exploring how Chicago is changing, from the future of downtown office space and daily commutes to the airports that connect the city to the world. Hear from University of Miami alumni who are helping guide Chicago's next chapter across real estate, transit, aviation, and architecture, then connect with fellow Canes over light bites and drinks with stunning views of the Chicago River.
Chicago Canes: Florida Universities Unite: Chicago Spring Meetup
The Chicago Canes invite you to a fun and casual spring meetup with fellow University of Miami alumni, along with graduates from other Florida universities in the Chicago area. We're bringing together alumni from the University of Miami, University of Florida, and Florida State University for an evening of connection, conversation, and community.
Join the Los Angeles Canes for a webinar on financial stewardship, featuring William Pierrepont, B.S.C. ’14. This session is designed to introduce key financial concepts in an accessible and engaging way. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your foundation or simply learn more, you’ll leave with a better sense of how to approach your financial future with confidence.
Join the Houston Canes for an evening dedicated to professional networking and career growth. This mixer offers alumni the opportunity to share business cards, optimize their LinkedIn profiles, and create new connections across a variety of industries. We’ll have a professional headshot station on site—sponsored by Young Alumni Leaders Council—so you can update your online presence with confidence.
Join the Jacksonville Canes for an evening of community and networking. Don’t miss this chance to reconnect, make new connections, and enjoy a wonderful evening with your fellow Canes. Please register in advance so we can anticipate your attendance.
Join us at the Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center on campus for a day focused on movement, wellness, and connection. Participants will rotate through interactive activities designed to be engaging and accessible for every experience level. The program also includes networking, small group activities, and a featured keynote. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.
Orlando Canes: Day of Service at Second Harvest Food Bank
The Orlando Canes are giving back by volunteering at Second Harvest Food Bank Orlando, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting hunger. Join us in making a meaningful impact by helping sort, pack, and distribute food to those in need. Families and children 10 years old and older are welcome.
Join the New York Canes at Clinton Hall for an engaging evening designed to help you connect and network with fellow alumni and friends of the U. This is a wonderful opportunity to build new relationships and strengthen existing connections in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
New York Canes at Yankee Stadium: A Night in the Bronx
Join the New York Canes at legendary Yankee Stadium as the Yankees host the Toronto Blue Jays for a four-game home stand. Here, school pride meets baseball tradition in a celebration of connection, camaraderie, and Canes spirit in the heart of the Bronx. Make sure to wear your orange and green!
Palm Beach County Canes: May Networking Event at Paradise Tavern
Join the Palm Beach County Canes at Paradise Tavern in North Palm Beach for our monthly networking event. Connect with fellow Canes as we celebrate our shared affinity for the U and build meaningful professional and personal relationships. Please register to let us know you’re coming.
Join the Philadelphia Canes for an evening of community and networking. Don’t miss this chance to reconnect, make new connections, and enjoy a wonderful evening with your fellow Canes. Please register in advance so we can anticipate your attendance.
Be a part of the annual Memorial Day tradition to place American flags upon grave sites located at the South Florida National Cemetery. Alumni, friends, and family are welcome to volunteer and commemorate the contributions of the men and women of U.S. Armed Forces and their families. This is also a wonderful service project opportunity. If anyone needs a letter confirming volunteer service, we will be happy to provide one. Please register by Friday, May 10, to attend the virtual orientation on Tuesday, May 12.
Join us as we rediscover cherished connections, participate in time-honored traditions, and cheer on the Miami Hurricanes as they take the field against the Duke Blue Devils. Save the dates and stay tuned for details!
