In some families, becoming a Miami Hurricane begins at birth.

“We weren’t allowed to say the words Gator or Seminole in our home,” says Gregory Cesarano, J.D. ’76, president of the University of Miami Alumni Association and son of Patrick Cesarano, B.B.A. ’35, and Beryl Cesarano, A.B. ’33.

Launching a new University of Miami tradition, Greg Cesarano and the UMAA hosted its first Legacy Reception to embrace incoming students who grew up as the daughter or son, granddaughter or grandson of UM graduates and to recognize their families. The August reception welcomed 160 legacy freshmen and 70 legacy transfer students. They take their place among a total 800 legacy students within the undergraduate population.

Since 2003 the UMAA has partnered with the Office of Admission to offer a Legacy Admission program that delivers personal service to children and grandchildren of alumni throughout the admission process. The best compliment to an institution, after all, is when alumni feel strongly enough about their alma mater to encourage their children and grandchildren to attend.

“Alumni loyalty is a fundamental component of this institution, and we celebrate another generation joining the UM family,” says Donna Arbide, M.B.A. ’95, associate vice president of alumni relations.

If you have a child or grandchild interested in applying to the University as a legacy student, visit www.miami.edu/legacy, call 1-866-UMALUMS, or contact legacy admission counselor Jim Sullivan at 305-284-5477.