Joining the UNT Alumni Association became a priority for Emery ('04) and Kasey Kamenicky ('04) shortly after the birth of their son Lukas.

"Money was tight, but we wanted to be a part of the association and be able to stay connected to UNT," says Kasey, who teaches commercial photography in Keller ISD. "Fortunately, the association offered payment options for life memberships and we were able to budget for that."

Hearing from UNT President Neal Smatresk at regional Alumni Association receptions, gaining professional contacts at networking events, and reading monthly e-newsletters that highlight distinguished alumni and association events are some of the benefits the Kamenickys appreciate.

The UNT Alumni Association offers individual and joint memberships available as annual or lifetime commitments. You can stay connected by joining, or if you are already an annual member, consider upgrading to a life membership before rates increase Sept. 1, 2017.

UNT is an important part of Kasey and Emery's life. The couple met during a political science class in Wooten Hall, worked together at the North Texas Daily and are raising their children — Lukas, age 6, and Piper, age 2 — to bleed green.

"Since joining, we've watched our university grow and the momentum is building," Kasey says. "This is the easiest way to get involved and give back. UNT gave us so much."