Alumni Association Market Research and Engagement Report

What a good one includes

• A comparative analysis of engagement metrics and donor participation rates from similar faith-based or values-driven institutions.
• Clear personas detailing how different age brackets of your alumni prefer to communicate, volunteer, and donate.
• Current data on how modern donors prioritize spiritual, ethical, and community-focused philanthropy over traditional institutional giving.
• A detailed breakdown of the digital and physical channels where your graduates are most active, from social media groups to traditional mailers.
• Low-barrier event concepts and service opportunities designed to re-engage disconnected alumni through shared values rather than financial appeals.
• A clear set of metrics to help your advancement team track engagement success beyond basic fundraising numbers.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Focusing the report entirely on fundraising metrics rather than building genuine, mission-aligned relationships and community.
• Relying on outdated print newsletters and general emails instead of incorporating modern, targeted digital strategies for younger alumni.
• Comparing your faith-based or community-centered institution to massive secular universities with fundamentally different donor dynamics.
• Providing overwhelming data without a clear, prioritized roadmap of what your team should execute in the first ninety days.

Frequently asked questions