There are many ways to stay connected to WashU, and volunteering is a rewarding one. Thousands of volunteers help keep Washington University vibrant and strong by contributing their time, enthusiasm, and knowledge to our community.

Don’t have much time available or live across the country? We have lots of volunteer roles available depending on your circumstances and preferences—short-term, online, or year-round! Email the Alumni Association to discuss any of the opportunities below or fill out the Volunteer Interest Form and we’ll contact you.

Logo for WashU CNX - Community Network Exchange

Alumni and current students are invited to join our online networking platform WashU CNX (pronounced “WashU connects”) and take advantage of mentorship, networking, and professional opportunities.

Volunteer opportunities


Alumni and Parents Admission Program (APAP)

Alumni with WashU bachelor’s degrees and parents of current undergraduates are invited to participate in the undergraduate admissions process. APAP members help the university recruit, interview, and enroll talented students from all over the world.


Black Alumni Council (BAC) Volunteers

The Black Alumni Council unites Black alumni with each other while strengthening engagement with the university. No matter where you are located, you can participate in and support the Black Alumni Council—there are many ​ways to get involved.


Eliot Society Volunteers

William Greenleaf Eliot Society volunteer committees help the university connect with local, regional, and global alumni and parents.


Network Volunteers

Alumni networks are groups of alumni, parents, and friends connected by geography, shared interest, culture, or profession or industry. Browse WashU’s networks to find groups that interest you. You may choose to get involved by hosting an event in your home, helping plan events, or sharing your expertise in a panel discussion.


Reunion Volunteers

If you are approaching your reunion year, consider joining a planning committee, encouraging classmates to support your class gift, or volunteering as a class ambassador.


WashU Engage Volunteers

The WashU Engage Network allows you to share your passion, knowledge, experience, and current community involvement with other alumni, parents, and friends of WashU.

Common questions

I’ve submitted my volunteer interest form. When should I expect to hear from you?

You can expect to hear back from a University Advancement staff member or other program representative within a week. In the meantime, feel free to contact the Alumni Association with any questions.

How much time do I have to commit?

We offer volunteer roles with a variety of time commitments. You’ll have an opportunity to discuss your availability with a University Advancement staff member or program representative. Opportunities range from welcoming guests for an hour at an event to joining a steering committee, which may involve several planning meetings throughout the year. We are happy to tailor an opportunity to fit your needs.

Can I still volunteer if I don’t live in St. Louis?

While some opportunities are only available to those who live in St. Louis, we encourage alumni around the world to get involved! After you fill out the volunteer interest form, we will contact you to discuss opportunities in your region.

I did not attend Washington University; can I still volunteer?

Yes! Parents of current and former students, former Washington University Medical Center residents and fellows, friends of the university, and faculty and staff members are invited to all of our events and are welcome to participate as volunteers.