As the holiday season approaches, UHD invites you to the Jingle Mingle Ugly Sweater Party on Dec. 19! This festive event brings the alumni community together to celebrate the season, reconnect with friends, and make new connections. Held in the Welcome Center Lobby, it offers the perfect mix of networking, fun, and holiday cheer.
According to John Stubblefield, Academic Success Coordinator, CHSS Advising Center, (‘20) the "Jingle Mingle is a great chance to connect with the alumni community in a festive setting. It’s perfect for building new connections or rekindling old ones during the holiday season, and introverts can enjoy low pressure activities, casual chats, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. The event is warm, welcoming, and full of holiday cheer, making it a great way to relax and celebrate.”
The evening kicks off with “Beer O’ Clock,” featuring appetizers and beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company. A welcoming toast will also honor the newest graduates from spring and fall 2024, celebrating their achievements and officially welcoming them into the Gator alumni family.
Another of the night’s highlights is the Ugly Sweater Contest, where attendees can show off their most creative holiday attire for a chance to win prizes. Whether your sweater is hilariously bad or brimming with festive flair, the contest adds a playful, lighthearted touch to the evening.
“The Jingle Mingle is more than a festive tradition. It’s a reminder of the incredible relationships we’ve built through UHD and an opportunity to create new ones rooted in our shared experiences,” said Jacobb Lipp (’21). “Every year, I’m amazed by the unexpected connections and meaningful conversations. Events like this are essential for fostering a strong alumni community, offering a platform for networking, mentorship, and mutual support that turns a shared university experience into a thriving, lifelong connection.”
Danielle Soria-Orozco, Director of Alumni Relations, also beautifully captures the heart of this tradition: “The Jingle Mingle is a special tradition that brings together the UHD alumni community to celebrate our shared experience and continued connections. It’s an honor to see so many familiar faces and welcome new ones as we strengthen the bonds that make our alumni network so vibrant.”
Whether you’re reliving fond memories, celebrating accomplishments, or simply enjoying the holiday cheer, the Jingle Mingle is the perfect way to wrap up the year. Mark your calendar for Dec. 19, wear your ugliest sweater, and join us for a night of laughter, connection, and holiday spirit. Let’s make it a night to remember!