For the past 14 years, the Duck Alumni Recruitment Team (DART) has been supporting the UO admissions process by providing a personalized experience for future Ducks. Through this program, alumni volunteer to talk with students at college fairs, receptions, and in one-on-one meetings, offering insights into what makes the UO unique and supporting students on their journey to college.
For Hawaii Ducks chapter board member Patrice Li, BA ’98 (journalism), volunteering with the DART program felt like a natural way to give back to the alma mater she loves, while supporting families in her community.
“I volunteered because I truly enjoyed my time at the UO and wanted to help students from Hawaii realize the dream of going to college,” Li said. “As a parent of teenagers, I understand what other parents are going through. I really enjoy speaking with parents and helping them ease their fears and anxiety over finding the right university for their child.”
DART volunteers are particularly needed during key recruiting seasons in the fall and spring. Volunteers engage with high school students at college fairs, host receptions for admitted students, and facilitate one-on-one connections between prospective students and alumni. Their stories help students see the value of attending the UO and ease the stresses of the admissions process.
Andrea Flores, BA ’97 (political science), appreciates the opportunity the DART program offers for alumni to get involved—no matter their distance from the UO. So far, Flores has represented the university at high school college fairs in her Bay Area community.
“DART provides a wonderful opportunity to share that UO signature hospitality with students and families who only know about the UO through their TV or mobile screen,” Flores said. “It has been a great way for me to feel like I am helping the university without having to leave my own backyard.”
Through her experience as the parent of a current UO student and professional career as vice president for advancement at Napa’s Justin-Siena High School, Flores offers a unique perspective. Recently, she had the opportunity to talk with a first-generation college-bound student and their parent, offering guidance on the college admissions and decision process.
“I was so happy to help [this student] and spend time encouraging him. Helping students like him was why I got into education 25 years ago. Whether he finds himself at UO or not, I hope he and his mom walked away with a warm and encouraging feeling from the folks at UO.”
DART volunteers have become integral to the recruiting process for the UO. They offer a personal touch to the sometimes-daunting process. No matter the setting, DART alumni make a lasting impression on future Ducks.
If you’re an alum who wants to stay connected to the UO, share your experiences, and help guide prospective students, consider becoming a DART volunteer. To learn more or apply, visit dart.uoregon.edu/join-dart or email uodart@uoregon.edu.
—By Olivia Arciniega, class of 2026 (business administration), UO Alumni Association student writer