Yes, the demographics and psycho-graphics of the alumni are changing, but human nature is not. On the flight home (Cleveland) from an Alumni Leadership Conference (Boston) of my beloved alma mater (Cornell), I reflected on the alumni affairs strategic planning discussion.

"Long overdue." First thought.

"Short on bold vision." Second thought -- probably an uninformed thought though, since the staff talent and passion on the Hill are embarrassingly abundant. But I couldn't help but reflect on 44 years as student, alumnus, employee, alumnus, volunteer, donor, college parent,...

I can keep this blog brief.

The power of alumni engagement is about Alum A connecting with Alum B, not reunion attendance;
The success of alumni affairs and development is in the hands of alumni not solely the staff; and
It's all about expansive information and data accessed independently by the alumni.

All the rest of my flight's musing are within the infographic below.

https://create.piktochart.com/output/36316203-alumni-2020-the-strategic-plan

Yes, the demographics and psycho-graphics of university alumni are changing, but human nature is not. [Women and millennials give to causes not institutions. Your messaging must be different.] This is a major shift in control, connection, impact – these are all that altruists want.

Your thoughts?

Daniel Mansoor '79 MBA '80 • GoodWorks Group • djmansoor@hotmail.com