June Gudeman

Totally in agreement with you on that, Randy. June

Hi Randy, I like the direction you're headed. It's important to think through where you want to go and what you want to accomplish through your alumni association. Your mission statement should reflect this. June

Gerry, The barriers you listed are very common issues. But, you have great thoughts on overcoming them. Bottom line, don't let the barriers stop you from moving forward. Get your program started with what you can, keep adding to it, and let the momentum grow. Often just getting started is the most difficult part. Good luck! June

Gerry, Remember there are many worthy causes and opportunities in your own community for both your current students and grads to become involved in. Often it just takes one passionate alumni and/or student to head up a team of volunteers that represent your college in a positive way. June

Fiona, You have some great ideas for each of these areas. It looks like setting up an advisory board would be of benefit to two of your three barriers. I'd start there! Good luck! June

Good thoughts Fiona, The key is thinking about your event from the graduate's perspective. Why would they want to come? What will they get out of it? What would be the most effective way to gather the information we want from them? June

Fiona, I understand your challenge. Keeping a website updated and new so it doesn't appear stagnant is a very time consuming task. I'm a strong believer in Alumni Success Stories. People are proud to share their own success and they appreciate being inspired by other stories. Not to mention, there are many opportunities to use those same stories to provide credibility to your institution. You're heading in the right direction! June

I like the direction you're going, Gerry. Those are all really good incentives. Keep trying to keep think from your graduate's perspective. June

Great ideas Gerry! I would agree that having your website and newsletter in place will help you already have a method of communication and help you "get the word out". I like the idea of an industry guest speaker. It's important to think through what would be a draw to your grads. June

Gerry, This is true. But, all the more reason to give them a REASON for wanting (career services - job board) or even needing (transcripts) to contact you. I've heard it said that our relationship with our alumni can be like a "courtship". First, we date them (maybe providing a fun event?), then we build our relationship (share information - provide opportunities), and the result is a marriage. It can work! June