Whitney Goetz has been named the new executive director of the ETSU National Alumni Association.
An alumnus herself and third generation Buccaneer, Goetz graduated from ETSU in 2005 with a degree in mass communications.
“I was definitely exposed to a lot of great things during my time at ETSU,” said Goetz. “I had wonderful professors. I also, as a part of my major, did an internship that gave me real world experience. I chose to do a second internship just to diversify my work experience…everyone is looking for that perfect experience and when you’ve had one or more internships while in class, while balancing classes, it sets you apart.”
After graduating, Goetz pursued a career at Mountain States Health Alliance, now Ballad Health, where she recruited student nurses from ETSU.
In 2009, Goetz relocated to Washington D.C.
“One of my jobs was writing correspondence for a United States senator,” Goetz said. “One thing I really learned at ETSU was how to write. I think that is something I have used in every single job.”
After her time working for Senator Bob Corker, Goetz accepted a position in Nashville, Tennessee, and worked in the Department of Treasury in 2013.
After her many experiences in and out of the state, Goetz returned to ETSU as the executive director of the National Alumni Association.
Due to COVID-19, traditional methods of connection with alumni will be difficult. Tailgates, football games, homecoming and other celebrations are not possible. However, Goetz is optimistic.
“We’ve had to pivot like every other industry and look for new creative ways to engage with our alumni,” Goetz said. “Which, I don’t think is necessarily a bad thing. We’re able to connect with alums that we might not have had the opportunity to connect with in the past.”
With the help of new technology, alumni will continue to stay connected and have the ability to show their ETSU pride.
From her many journeys and experiences, Goetz’s love for ETSU has only grown stronger.
“I love the university,” Goetz said. “I love this community. The Appalachian highlands region has been so good to me.”
