June Gudeman

Laurie, People enjoy being asked to be on a committee or team. It communicates that you've thought about it and decided they have something to offer that you're looking for. I totally agree that large committees can be 'unruly'. I believe a small hand-picked team can accomplish way more than a large group of well-meaning volunteers. June Gudeman

Laurie, That sounds fantastic!! I am very interested in how your once a month conference calls go. I really think asking for a one year commitment is a wise move on your part. It requires a certain level of commitment without asking for too much. June Gudeman

Jennifer, Inviting alumni to bring guests, particularly those that may have an interest in your institution, is a great way to get referrals. June Gudeman

Jennifer, You are absolutely right about using volunteers. You want people who 'want' to be there. I might suggest one other strategy and that is to think about who you 'want' on your team and then ask them and let them know why you are 'choosing' them. People like to be asked and they appreciate someone believing they would be a good addition to the team. Just a thought. June Gudeman

Matt, You've done a great job of summarizing the challenges. I would agree that participation on all fronts is certainly the biggest challenge. People are so busy and our events need to merit attendance. I really like your idea of asking grads what would make an event worth attending. Sometimes we 'think' we have a great idea, but it doesn't hold the same appeal for the actual alumni. Good thoughts! June Gudeman

Matt, The number one reason our graduates return to our institutions is for career services, so you are certainly on track. I like your other ideas, especially the option for reduced tuition -- that's always a draw for our grads. Keep brainstorming, possibly even invite ideas from your alumni. June Gudeman

Matt, I believe you have a pretty clear grasp of the time and energy that needs to be devoted to keeping an alumni site up and running. As you mentioned, keeping content fresh and relevant is a huge job. Plus, no matter how prepared you believe you are, there are always unexpected challenges. I like your thoughts on eliciting assistance from other departments and grads themselves. June Gudeman

Matt, Your draft is a good start. Remember, you are stating the purpose of your association. Why do it? Certainly, to "assist your graduates in their continued success" is the most powerful and clear message of your statement. I'd suggest you think through the second sentence regarding community. It's great to be involved with the community. The question I want to ask is - is it your bottom line purpose? June Gudeman

Linnet, I believe you have touched on several of the toughest barriers. Do you have some suggestions to overcoming any of those particular barriers for your institution? June Gudeman

Linnet, A job fair would certainly be a good start, but would probably only draw those graduates that are currently unemployed. Possibly, you could create an event that would 'include' a job fair, but not have it be the sole draw to the event. This way working graduates could be included. June Gudeman