June Gudeman

Samantha, It sounds like you have a good start already. I like the idea of using your alumni that are on your staff. What a perfect way to get started! June Gudeman

Camille, Getting involved in the community and fundraising event is a great way to get your 'name' out inn the public eye in a positive light. Great ideas! June Gudeman

Camille, It is VERY difficult to find older grads and to keep up with their current contact information. Many institutions pay an incredible amount of money to organizations that help you find and clean up records of your alumni. We have found that by putting a dedicated alumni website together, our grads are finding us! They are finding us on the internet and they are updating their profiles. I would consider spending your money on a dedicated website. Just something to consider, June Gudeman

Brad, It's good to make your list of potentials. No one feels like they have 'time' for one more commitment. But if you can approach them with why you chose them for the list and what you feel they can contribute to your team, it may help. June Gudeman

James, Great ideas! It's obvious you're really thinking through the details and what would draw people to participate. You are absolutely right on when you talk about involving other departments - it's all about what's in it for them. I love the idea of a talking paper covering the benefits. You are also absolutely correct that people drive by our institutions everyday not knowing who we are and how we might provide a beneficial service to them! Hope you're able to follow through on these good ideas. June Gudeman

James, Great idea! When we plan events for our alumni, we HAVE to think about why they would want to come. Certainly, a Job Fair setting (especially with food) will be a draw for those graduates. Good ideas! June Gudeman

James, I like your idea for maintaining the website - certainly, you want to keep it fresh and new so your grads see the need for returning often. Providing your current students - about to graduate - with a flyer will be helpful in letting them know how to stay in touch. But, bottom line is your grads WILL find you if you have a dedicated website. June Gudeman

Camille, It does sound like a good environment and will be much cheaper than renting another facility. You'll need to decide whether to make a a 'pure' open house type of event or whether to offer a type of program or a time where someone will speak or provide information. June Gudeman

Camille, Yes, I like you analogy of working on a team at school for a project. June Gudeman

Camille, Agreed! They are probably already happy to help, but life is so 'full' and providing incentives to help them decide to give of their time are probably necessary. June Gudeman