Making the CASE for Alumni Relations

Value Proposition University: Alumni: PhilanthropyIntellectual Content- “Lifelong Learning” VolunteersProfessional Contacts MentorsPersonal Networking AdvocatesPride in alma mater- increasing degree value Connectors Making a difference Success Stories

Our Shared Universe Industry: Education Mission: Service to Society through institutional mission Profession: Advancement Job: Communications, Alumni/Parent/Donor/Community/Corporate Relations, Advancement Services, Philanthropy etc.

How Alumni Relations Impacts Advancement Research Know alumni stories Engage donors with university leaders Quantify and share engagement data/metrics Philanthropy Cultivate experts Align volunteer interest with giving priorities Build prospect pools Connect prospects to DOs Donor Relations Events focused on recognition Communicate broadly and specifically with alumni community Foster Mason traditions Advancment Services Front line data collection Tell stories with data/trends/ROI Bridge gap between advancement services and communications

Alumni Relations…. Contributes to the research process Cultivates and stewards alumni Develops prospect pools Shares narratives between alumni and the university Practices and quantifies engagement Create and sustain university advocates

Where are alumni engaged?  Classroom and academic activities  Athletics  Advancement  Student Life  Career Services  Admissions  Government and Community Relations

How do alumni engage? -Volunteer/Service Programs, boards & committees -Communications (Magazine/newsletters, Web, e-Newsletters, Social Media) -Online Resources and Services -Recognition and Acknowledgement -Events -School/University programs and Continuing Education -Cultural and Athletic Programs -Professional and Career Development

Conclusion: *THERE IS NO “US AND THEM”, JUST US *BE PROUD OF WHAT YOU DO & KNOW YOUR VALUE *THERE IS NO DARK SIDE (EXCEPT IN STAR WARS)

Chris Clark-Talley A.V. P. for Alumni Relations Executive Director of the Alumni Association George Mason University