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Kenan Connection: A place for partners

Kenan Connection president Lauren Hogge & husband Paul (MBA '16)

Kenan Connection president Lauren Hogge & husband Paul (MBA ’16)

The MBA admissions process is full of unknowns – for prospective students and their partners. For applicants, many of the uncertainties fade away once they receive admissions offers and select a school. But after the initial excitement subsides, many partners still find themselves facing a lot of unknowns: Where is the best place to live? What job opportunities are available for me? Where can I find childcare?

As the partner of UNC Kenan-Flagler student Paul Hogge (MBA ’16), let me be the first to say: You are not alone! Paul and I moved to Chapel Hill from San Francisco, CA – and around this time last year, I was in the same place you are. I speak from experience when I say that everyone is trying to figure these things out. Thankfully, we have Kenan Connection – a network of current UNC Kenan-Flagler partners who have gone through the same experience of acclimating and living in Chapel Hill.

Kenan Connection provided me with a welcoming place to meet other partners who were going through (or had gone through) the same things as I was and were eager to share the resources and advice they acquired along the way. MBA students have opportunities to meet each other and get acquainted during orientation and through classes, group projects and networking events. Partners are often invited to these events, but it’s nice to have a smaller, more intimate group where partners can get to know each other in a comfortable setting.

Kenan Connection partners enjoying a night out on the town.

Kenan Connection partners enjoying a night out on the town.

Kenan Connection has five clubs:

  • Social club
  • Dinner club
  • Sports & entertainment club
  • Craft club
  • Community service club

Each of the clubs organizes and hosts themed events that all Kenan Connection members are invited to. A few examples of the many events we host are:

  • Welcome brunch at the Carolina Inn
  • Friendsgiving
  • International cooking classes
  • Wine and design painting
  • Informal Sunday evenings at Tru (Glasses of wine are ½ off on Sunday nights!)

This past year the partners of Kenan Connection have shown and shared with me tremendous hospitality, laughter, openness and kindness. I am very excited to lead the group, carry on traditions and create new memories in the coming year. Our passionate group of partners is looking forward to welcoming the new first year MBA students, partners and families.

I’m more than happy to answer any questions you may have – and if I don’t have the best answer, I’ll be glad to connect you with someone who does! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I look forward to welcoming you to Chapel Hill soon!

By Lauren Hogge, president – Kenan Connection

3.21.2015