June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Barriers to setting up an Alumni Association

Shawn, It sounds like you have clearly identified the barriers. The next difficulty is determining the best way to get around those things that seem to be in the way. I like the idea of an alumni drive. Know also, that if you're able to put together some type of alumni site or alumni Facebook page, it will solve some of the distance issues and they will actually come to you and update their contact information. June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Your First Event

Shawn, This sounds like a simple event and yet one that would draw your graduates. I like the idea and believe it's important to start small and then build. June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Challenges to Setting Up an Alumni Association Website

Shawn, Budget is an issue many alumni offices face, especially when it comes to the desire to set up a complete and well designed website with all the 'bells and whistles' we'd all like to include. I'm wondering if there might be a way to set up a smaller scale website, or even a page or two linked from your main website, or maybe even just using a Facebook page to begin engaging your alumni. As you obtain some momentum with your graduates, it may be easier for your organization to designate monies toward the development of a full fledged… >>>

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Mission Statement Development

Shawn, I am in agreement that incorporating portions of your current college mission statement into your alumni mission statement is wise. So, what will your alumni mission statement be and what will it include that is not in your current college mission? June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Barriers to setting up an Alumni Association

Susan, I appreciate your thoughts on moving forward despite a lack of resources/funding. You are correct - there are so many free tools that can help us 'connect' to our graduates. I believe as a your institutions sees the advantages through your 'free' methods of connection, they'll be encourage to invest in their alumni program. Great ideas! June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Your First Event

Debra, Perfect! It sounds like you're on it! June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Measuring Alumni Association Results

Debra, Thanks for your response. I really like how you're integrating current students and alumni. Our grads are such a great resource for our students. June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Measuring Alumni Association Results

Debra, Will you offer free or paid membership into your association? What will you offer your grads for placement assistance and how will you measure the success of your assistance? How do you plan to offer networking? June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Your First Event

Debra, I'm wondering what you plan to offer for your alumni? Sometimes we need to put ourselves in their shoes and ask ... why would I want to go to this event? Will you offer Career Services? Will you have a gift for your grads? How will you entice them to attend? June Gudeman

June Gudeman

Discussion Comment

Challenges to Setting Up an Alumni Association Website

Susan, It sounds like you have done a great job of thinking through how to offer 'something' to your graduates with limited resources. Many times institutions just don't do anything because they can't offer a full scale service. Your idea about using a website host is a great start. It also give you time to think through and plan strategically for what you want to include in your full service site. June Gudeman