June Gudeman

Kelley, Our graduates are really 'living' advertisements for our institution in that they represent who we are. Look for opportunities to tap into that by gathering alumni success stories and then think about creative ways to share those in your community. June Gudeman

Kelley, Since the number one reason our graduates 'come back' seems to be related to Career Services, I think you are definitely on the right path. June Gudeman

Kelley, I agree with your thoughts. If you have buy in from the 'top', you have the power to sell the idea and the time required from your instructors. June Gudeman

Kelley, I'm confused by your answer, could you clarify? You say your current advisory board includes former graduates, but you say you do not have alumni. Since former graduates are alumni, I'm not understanding. You may want to diversify your alumni advisory board to include - graduates (alumni), current students, employers, representatives from your instructors or administration (placement, admissions, etc. ) June Gudeman

Coryne, I really appreciate your current college mission statement components. You're right in wanting to follow that same path and just add your own commitment to communication. I like it! June Gudeman

Coryne, It sounds like a well thought out plan of action. I like your idea to include current students, those same students will be understand the value of involvement after graduation and very likely will want to be on your advisory board as an alumni. You may want to consider inviting some representatives of some key departments like admissions, student services, or career services. June Gudeman

Samantha, I like your focus on making sure the alumni recognize the benefit to them. June Gudeman

Samantha, Good ideas! It's difficult to actually track numbers specific to graduate influence, but you can sure try! June Gudeman

Samantha, You may want to consider setting up an alumni site which will give you the ability to administrate the back end and make changes without using IT or having to pay a high hourly rate to a programer. June Gudeman

Samantha, I agree with your decision to align your institution's mission statement with your new alumni mission statement. Good luck! June Gudeman