June Gudeman

Shannon, Those are very real challenges. I appreciate your strategy ideas to be able to move forward and further engage your alumni. If you don't have the resources to develop a dedicated alumni site, possibly you could consider using social media to provide a 'connecting place' for your graduates and a place for you to communicate with them? June Gudeman

Shannon, Involving industry professionals and HR managers would certainly bring about valuable connections for your school and your graduates. Our alumni, typically, are very interested in any assistance we can provide related to career services/networking/placement. That being said, I'd encourage you to also think about inviting a representation of your own staff (student services. administration, instructors, etc.) to be part of your board as you work together to consider the direction of your alumni community. June Gudeman

Jennifer, All of those offer great benefits for your graduates. June Gudeman

Jennifer, Excellent mission statement! I like it! June Gudeman

Gina, You are not alone. For most of us,those are the two items that present the biggest challenge. There may be some creative solutions that I would challenge you to consider for both of these items. June Gudeman

Gina, Again, it would be interesting to 'think' like a graduate. Why would I want to come back? What would draw me? People are so busy with full schedules. It is imperative that you offer something they are looking for. Possibly, it would be good to survey some of your graduates or even involve them in the planning? June Gudeman

Dan, Great! Remember that people appreciate being asked. It communicates that you value them and their opinion. If you don't get the volunteers you need, you may want to consider targeting specific grads and asking them to be a part of your team. June Gudeman

Dan, This looks like a good mix or balance of folks for your advisory board. I'm curious how you might decide on staff/faculty/grads/employees? Will you ask for volunteers or invite individuals to be part of your team? June Gudeman

Linnet, It sounds like you have done an accurate job of considering your barriers. June Gudeman

Linnet, This is definitely a challenge. I'm curious what you would propose to help you stay in contact with your graduates? June Gudeman