Volunteer Profile: Margie Blanton (GSAS ’17)

January 15, 2023

Margie has a proven ability to successfully work across global cross-functional teams in higher education, corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations. Outside of NYU, she has held various leadership roles, most recently as Vice President of University Relations at a major global financial services company. In this role, she develops and implements the early career engagement strategy to support the hiring of thousands of analysts and associates annually in different programs across the company, and leads a team of university relations specialists hosting more than 60 student engagement events annually.

Read more about how and why Margie stays involved at NYU, how NYU helped shape her career trajectory, the NYU classes and instructors that inspired her, and the club’s upcoming day of service.

Meet Margie:

How did you first become involved as an NYU alumni volunteer?

The Office of Alumni Relations hosted a brunch for residents of New Jersey interested in becoming leaders of the NYU Club in New Jersey. I had an opportunity to meet with the outgoing president and hear about all the past events and was immediately excited to join.

Why do you stay involved with NYU? Why would you encourage other alumni—especially new grads—to get involved?

The people. I have met so many interesting NYU alumni and have developed great friendships with my fellow volunteers in hosting and attending alumni events. Also, the NYU Club in New Jersey hosts a variety of events all across the state, so being involved gives me an opportunity to explore new places and a chance to give back to my community.  I would encourage new grads and alumni to get involved because it is a great way to meet new people and see new places!

What’s your proudest (or most fun) moment as an alumni volunteer?

I was very excited to organize our first New Graduate Welcome Event this year. It was such a pleasure welcoming dozens of new graduates to the NYU alumni community.

Did you have any NYU classes or instructors who inspired or impacted you?

I studied International Relations at the Graduate School of Arts and Science, and there was one professor, Professor Daniel Benaim, who had an amazing career and was incredibly smart but was also approachable and empathetic. I learned a lot from his teachings but really admired his human approach.

What is a surprising way you’ve used your NYU education since graduating?

Having studied International Relations, I thought I would immediately go into government service. After graduation, however, I pivoted and went into financial services supporting a global company where I have had an opportunity to partner with colleagues from across the world on interesting projects and initiatives.

What is your favorite NYU memory?

While earning my master’s degree at NYU, I worked as a graduate assistant in the French Department as the NYU Paris Study Abroad Coordinator. I loved serving in that role and have fond memories of engaging with students from across the University about studying abroad.

What is your favorite:

• Food? Tacos
• Book? Little Women
• TV Show and/or Movie? Fleabag (season 2!)
• Song and/or Musical Artist? “Just Like Heaven” by The Cure
• Place on NYU’s campus? Washington Mews
• Way to spend a winter day in NYC? Visiting holiday markets to shop, eat all the treats, and drink some hot cider or mulled wine.