Date Approved

6-20-1995

Embargo Period

9-13-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in Public Relations

Department

Public Relations & Advertising

College

Ric Edelman College of Communication & Creative Arts

Advisor

Fulginiti, Anthony

Subject(s)

Benefactors; Universities and colleges--Alumni and alumnae

Disciplines

Public Relations and Advertising

Abstract

This study identified through secondary research the criteria necessary to operate a successful alumni association. Successful in this context refers to the ability to get alumni involved in the association and to maintain their interest and support.

This secondary research uncovered six areas of alumni association management. These criteria are: career development, techniques of communication, alumni gatherings, alumni benefits and bonuses, management and resources and special interest groups. These were applied to the primary research by forming the structure of the alumni association survey.

The alumni association survey involved contacting 16 alumni directors whose organizations have high involvement rates and giving percentages. The directors were chosen from U.S. News and World Report's list of top colleges and universities. Directors from schools of various sizes and geographic locations were surveyed to obtain methods and techniques applicable to many institutions.

The survey results yielded many helpful ideas successful alumni directors use to generate and maintain alumni support. Alumni directors many use this study as a reference guide when they look for new ideas to incorporate into their own associations. The methods and techniques contained in this paper represent ideas that work.

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