Alumni relations has always been an “on the ground” effort, where the execution and implementation of programs is viewed as more critical than the behind-the-scenes thought process. But with tightening budgets, heightened accountability and the need to show return on investment in advancement, it has never been more important for alumni relations leaders to have a seat at the big table and adopt a big picture perspective. A development program simply cannot achieve its greatest level of success without a strategic, thoughtful and aggressive engagement plan to facilitate institutional affinity and the raising of money.

Alumni relations professionals need to work closely with other advancement heads to conceive the strategies necessary to achieve the institution’s goals. John Feudo, a chief advancement officer and former alumni relations director, looks past the tactical to get to the heart of the strategic challenges now facing alumni relations leaders. He weaves helpful examples and insightful interviewswith alumni relations  leaders in 12 engaging chapters on top level issues, such as:
•• Talent management,
•• Managing relationships with leadership, peers and staff,
•• Maximizing board and volunteer efforts,
•• Strategic planning for the function and for its place within institutional goals,
•• Regional and global alumni program management,
•• Choosing the right measures of success and
•• Fostering innovation.

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