31 Ambassadors
The 31 Ambassadors are made up of 31 hand-selected ULM students that serve as the
official hosts for University & Alumni Events. The"31ers" work to increase student
awareness of the ULM Alumni Association by hosting traditional events on campus. The 31 Ambassadors is sponsored by the ULM Alumni Association and is largely self-sustaining,
with additional funding coming from the generous contributions of benefactors and
the ULM Alumni Association.
Why 31?
The 31 Ambassadors organization, known originally as NLU31, was formed in 1981 (during
NLU's 50th anniversary) after several students and alumni recognized a special need
to create an awareness of the activities and benefits provided through the NLU Alumni
Association. Due to the fact Northeast Louisiana University was established in 1931,
the charter members of the organization adopted the name "NLU31." Today, we use the
name 31 Ambassadors.
Purpose of the 31 Ambassadors
The purpose of the 31 Ambassadors is: to serve as ambassadors for ULM and student
representatives for its Alumni Association, to serve as the official host at selected
university and alumni-related events, to sponsor activities to increase student awareness
of the ULM Alumni Association, and to instill the spirit of volunteerism and philanthropy
among students and future alumni.
Leadership & Networking Opportunities
31 Ambassadors offers exclusive leadership and networking opportunities to its members.
As student representatives of ULM, 31 Ambassadors staff and attend student-organized
and alumni events that offer face-to-face contact with influential alumni and community
members in their respective fields. Personal development and leadership workshops
are incorporated into 31 Ambassador meetings three times per semester. Past guest
speakers have included: President Berry, ULM Softball Coach Molly Fichtner, & Ouachita
Valley Federal Credit Union Assistant VP of Lending Marlon Owens. Upcoming speakers
include DJ Davis, Ouachita Parish School Board, and Alberta Green, ABG Professional
Development Solutions.
31 Ambassadors is the only RSO requested to assist with the President's Box during
football games, where President Berry personally invites guests to attend the game
in his private suite. Past guests have included: ULS System President - Dr. James
Henderson, Lt. Governor of Louisiana Billy Nungesser, City of Monroe Mayor Friday
Ellis, Senator Katrina Jackson, Joey Trappey, owner of Trapps, Crawfish City, & Field
House, and many others.
These events and more offer members unique opportunities to connect and network with
highly-respected alumni. The new 31 Mentorship Program connects Ambassadors to the
Alumni Association Board of Director Mentors.
31 Ambassador Traditions Around Campus
Oozeball
"Oozeball," commonly known as mud volleyball, has been a Spring Fever Week tradition
since 1988. The event's purpose is to promote camaraderie among students and increase
student awareness about 31 Ambassadors. The Oozeball tournament takes place behind Malone Stadium on the last day of Spring
Fever Week. Oozeball brackets are available for women, men, co-rec, and faculty/staff.
This is one of our favorite traditions!
The 31 Ambassadors plan and organize all aspects of the tournament and help the day-of
to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.
Don Weems Memorial Chili Cook-Off
Since 1984, the 31 Ambassadors and the Alumni Association have hosted the chili cook-off,
started by Tom Deal, Frank Elkin III, and Don Weems. Traditionally held on the last
home game of the football season, teams get together to decide who makes the best
chili in Monroe! This event is open to alumni, students, and community members.
The 31 Ambassadors plan and promote the event to students and alumni. On the day of
the event, the 31 Ambassadors assist with helping participants, social media coverage,
judging, and scoring.
Hawktoberfest
Hawktoberfest is one of our newer traditions. Hawktoberfest is an opportunity for
ULM students, alumni, and community members to come together to enjoy different craft
beers from local breweries, food, games, and live music. Our mocktail bar is open
for those under 21, or that choose not to consume alcohol!
31 Ambassadors are responsible for all planning and promotion of the event to students
and alumni. On the day of the event, the 31 Ambassadors assist with set up, social
media coverage, attendee engagement, mocktail & hydration stations, and more!
T-Shirt Swap
The 31 Ambassadors come together to design an exclusive T-shirt for the student body.
31 Ambassadors encourage students to bring a shirt from a different university or college to swap it out for the limited
edition exclusive ULM T-shirt! This idea began as a way to promote school spirit and
pride among the ULM community. The 31 Ambassadors are responsible for designing and
editing the T-shirt, organizing swap dates & times, and promoting the event to the
student body. All swapped shirts are donated to a local thrift store.
Grad Finale
Grad Finale is hosted to help graduating students prepare for their commencement ceremony
and life after graduation. At this event, students can purchase their cap & and gown,
take professional graduation portraits, and meet with representatives from Financial
Aid, Career Services, Grad School, and the Alumni Association.
31 Ambassadors are responsible for planning & promoting Grad Finale, in addition to
assisting attendees with anything they may need.
2023 - 2024 Executive Council
2023 - 2024 31 Ambassadors
Become a 31 Ambassador
Applications for the 2024 - 2025 Ambassadors will open in January 2024.
