Aww Lake! Do not fret! You are still moving in a positive direction!
Let's look at what you've got going for you:
1) The AI Coordinator responded right away - you didn't have to languish for weeks with no response.
2) She said they would put you in contact with an alum group.
3) The new AI Coordinator now knows your name.
Those are three positive things out of that one e-mail!
However, yes, it must be so discouraging when you have to leave it to someone else to make the next step for you. I remember feeling so helpless at times waiting on someone else to get back to me.
I want to let you know from experience that late fall can be a busy time for folks.....you may not hear back from anyone for a long while. The chapters are often doing elections and alums are busy preparing for the holidays. Then, of course, there is winter break for chapters. I'd say, hang in there through mid to late January and then e-mail again. You can send a friendly note saying that you'd love to meet up with an alum chapter to see if there's any way you can assist in the new year.
Hang in there!!! We're all behind you!!
.....Kelly