So far from this course, I have learned essential planning leads to the successful development of an Alumni Association.
My foremost requirement is to determine the "why" of my Alumni Association; I must identify the need or opportunity that this association will address. My institution aims to increase its enrollment numbers and has previously recruited through referrals. Therefore, my Alumni Association would serve my institution best by creating a roadmap for graduates to connect prospective students with our Admissions department.
Another essential requirement for my association is to establish an Advisory Board. I currently meet with several interested departments informally to discuss events. However, I can meet with these stakeholders over formal meetings to better pursue our mission.
Finally, I can establish a web page to communicate the intents and goals of my Alumni Association. I have already created a landing page for our graduates and have begun to direct them there. My students can engage effectively so long as my web page reads clearly and addresses the needs of my graduate population well.