The University of Miami alumnus, former University trustee, and former CEO of a major consulting firm, Echevarria has served the U in a variety of roles, from CEO of UHealth and the University to acting president.
The University of Miami celebrates its centennial on April 8, 2025. In anticipation, the University of Miami Alumni Association and Pat Whitely, Ed.D. ’94, senior vice president for student affairs and alumni engagement, are visiting ’Canes Communities around the country to showcase a century of academic achievement, trailblazing research, and community impact—and look ahead to the boundless possibilities that await us. Enjoy this glimpse at the first stop, in Tampa, and get one alum’s perspective on the value of staying connected.
After a career in education, Linde Barrett, M.B.A. ’86, M.S.Ed. ’05, is heading to North Africa for a U.S. Department of State post as a cultural ambassador. Read more >
Snapshots from our first century:
Sebastian then and now
In 1955, Norman Whitten, then-director of student activities, created a two-dimensional cartoon character of the U’s mascot, the ibis. Two years later, San Sebastian Hall sponsored an ibis entry—eventually named Sebastian—into the Homecoming celebration. The following year, Sebastian the Ibis made his first live appearance at a football game when John Stormont, B.A. ’60, donned a homemade Ibis costume—starting a tradition that has stood for nearly 70 years.
Several iterations later, Sebastian remains among the most recognizable of college mascots—even as the identities of the students inside the fluffy orange and white costume are kept secret until they graduate. Pictured: Sebastian in 1963 and 2023. Photos: University of Miami Libraries Digital Collections; Jenny Abreu/University of Miami.
Zeta Tau Alpha and the University kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month
In what has become an annual tradition, members of the Gamma Alpha chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA) partnered with the University to light up the Cobb Fountain in Lake Osceola in pink to mark the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During their annual Think Pink Week each October, ZTA works to spread the message of breast cancer education and awareness. Photo: Isabella Timiraos/University of Miami.
Alumni Weekend and Homecoming is almost here! Join us as alumni, parents, fans, and friends of the U gather from near and far to celebrate all that it means to be a Miami Hurricane. And whether this is your first Homecoming as an alum, or your 50th, it’s always the best party of the year.
Join fellow ’Canes and friends to support our student-athletes and cheer for your Miami Hurricanes at game watch parties in ’Canes Communities across the country. Check back frequently for updates.
Coming up: Homecoming game vs. Florida State (October 26) | Duke (November 2) | at Georgia Tech (November 9) | Wake Forest (November 23) | at Syracuse (November 30)
Join us for an exciting evening dedicated to fostering connections between students, alumni, and professionals from various industries. Expand your network, exchange ideas, and gain valuable career insights in a relaxed, interactive setting.
Join the Atlanta ’Canes Community for a “Beat Tech” Bash with our local and visiting University of Miami alumni and fans. The $5 donation will benefit the Atlanta ’Canes Community Scholarship Fund.
Join Pat Whitely, Ed.D. ’94, senior vice president for student affairs and alumni engagement, and guest Katie Meier, special advisor to the vice president and director of athletics, for this celebration of the University’s upcoming centennial. Light bites and beverages will be provided.
Join Pat Whitely, Ed.D. ’94, senior vice president for student affairs and alumni engagement, and guest Patricia S. Abril, interim dean of the University of Miami School of Law, for this celebration of the University’s upcoming centennial. Light bites and beverages will be provided.
Join the Chicago ’Canes Community and fellow alumni from across the country for a dynamic virtual professional development program. Whether you are embarking on a new career, seeking advancement, or considering a career change, this program is designed to support your goals.
We are thankful for all your support to the Broward ’Canes Community, and want to invite you to an afternoon to engage with other families and give back! Come enjoy a day with your ’Canes family and help give back to our community food pantry, by bringing canned goods and non-perishables to this FREE event.
