From Charleston, South Carolina, to California, and from Germany to Australia, The Citadel’s alumni clubs are ensuring that members of the Long Gray Line stay connected after graduation. With more than 80 alumni clubs across the United States, and a growing international presence, this network offers alumni and current cadets alike a unique opportunity of mentorship, career guidance and a sense of home — no matter how far they’ve traveled since leaving campus.

Local clubs, lifelong bonds

Whether a recent graduate is moving or an older alum is settling in a new area, there’s a likely chance there is a Citadel alumni club waiting for them. These local chapters organize networking receptions, football watch parties and service projects that aim at keeping alumni engaged and connected to The Citadel. Many clubs also support current cadets, through hosting meet-ups, attending conferences, or simply giving their advice and mentorship. Beyond events, many clubs provide behind-the-scenes support for cadets’ families, offering a point of contact for parents and loved ones who are going through key milestones along with their cadet, like Matriculation Day.

While every club operates independently, The Citadel recognizes those that go above and beyond through its Gold Star Club.

“We want to encourage alumni clubs to be involved at any level possible,” said Col. Tom McAlister, ‘98, executive director of The Citadel Alumni Association. “But for those clubs that meet certain standards — like hosting a muster, supporting cadets and submitting an annual report — we designate them as Gold Star Clubs, an accomplishment that many clubs earn every year.”

To earn Gold Star status, clubs must meet several criteria, including hosting an annual muster to honor fallen alumni, conducting a send-off for incoming cadets and designating alumni recruiters to assist with admissions outreach.

One of the most meaningful traditions for alumni clubs is the annual muster. The first Citadel Alumni Muster was held in 1998 as an Alumni Association initiative to bring together graduates each year in recognition of those in the Long Gray Line who had passed away during the preceding year. By honoring those who can no longer stand formation, the muster serves as both a remembrance and a rallying point for alumni.

A global network with local impact

These alumni clubs stretch beyond U.S. borders. A few active international alumni clubs include Germany, Benelux, Thailand and Australia. These chapters are both a social and professional network for Citadel alumni living abroad and a support system for cadets originally from those areas. And newer international clubs, like the one in Thailand, showcase the passion and commitment of global alumni.

“I was really impressed by the passion and sincerity of our Thailand alumni,” said McAlister. “They were determined to make it happen, and they did. It shows what’s possible when alumni step up to lead in their region.”

Staying connected with The Citadel Family

For a Citadel alumnus, graduation is just the beginning. Whether it’s through a networking event or hosting a tailgate, The Citadel’s alumni clubs are ensuring that future generations will remain part of a lifelong family — one that stretches from Charleston to the far corners of the world. All alumni, including graduate students and veteran students from The Citadel Graduate College, are welcome and encouraged to participate in alumni club activities.

To learn more about Citadel alumni clubs, including local and international chapters, visit citadelalumni.org/clubs. These clubs continue the mission of the Long Gray Line, providing community, professional growth, and support for graduates and cadets worldwide.