Want to put UL Lafayette at your fingertips? There’s an app for that.
GeauxU connects alumni and supporters to the University via smartphone and tablet. Users can view news stories; interact with official social media feeds; take a virtual campus tour; easily update their contact information; and reserve tickets for alumni events.
The app is a clearinghouse for information and more, said Troy Hebert, president of the UL Lafayette Alumni Association.
“GeauxU is about engaging graduates and connecting them to their alma mater. It has features that give users the opportunity to become regular participants in University life, whether they live on campus, across the country or in another part of the world.”
For example, in the app’s Wallet section, users have access to their membership cards for the Alumni Association, the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, the Ragin’ Cajuns Athletic Foundation, and Edith Garland Dupré Library. The section also keeps track of donations to these entities and to the Alumni Loyalty Fund, and offers links to support the University financially.
Digital cards streamline attendance at University-sponsored events, and make it easier to take advantage of benefits such as the Red Dot discount program. Through that program, business partners give University students, faculty, and alumni a discount for products and services.
Users can also connect with alumni clubs by location and with chapters that align with their professions or interests, said Lauren Shiver, the University’s associate vice president for Advancement Operations.
“GeauxU is designed to build a mobile community. Its features replicate the sense of belonging to the University family that graduates had when they were students here.”
Shiver continued: “One of the fun aspects of the app is its Traditions section. We have over 40 activities listed, such as attending a performance at Angelle Hall, tailgating at Cajun Field, or wearing red on Fridays. There is something for everyone.”
Some activities ask users to upload photos or write a few sentences to share their experiences. As users work through the list, they’ll unlock four achievement levels and win prizes.
The app is a component of ongoing efforts by the University to find new ways to deepen affinity for – and engagement with – UL Lafayette, said Jennifer LeMeunier, the Alumni Association’s executive director.
GeauxU “is a significant tool for reaching our goal of using digital and mobile platforms to enhance our traditional programs and services, such as creating and supporting clubs and chapters across the country,” she said.
The app also provides information about booking the Alumni Center for weddings, meetings, reunions, lectures and other events, LeMeunier added.
“We’re providing opportunities for alumni and members of the community to get involved with the University. That may be through programs we offer; through the chance to volunteer; by attending University events; or by downloading and using the GeauxU app.”
GeauxU is available from the App Store and on GooglePlay.
Photo caption: Look for this icon when downloading UL Lafayette’s GeauxU app. (Photo credit: University of Louisiana at Lafayette)