Vanderbilt alumni care deeply about their university. They are loyal and willing advocates, and are excited to be “Vanderbilt for Life.” They want to hear about the latest faculty research and Vanderbilt events in their city, as well as connect with networking and career resources offered by the university.
Those are just some of the findings from the Vanderbilt University Alumni Association’s recent, expansive alumni satisfaction survey.
“We greatly appreciate the 7,083 alumni who took the time to participate in the Alumni Attitude Survey. It is important for us to understand what alumni think about their alma mater and how we can continue to enhance their engagement with the university and with their global Commodore network,” says Graham Stewart, associate vice chancellor of alumni relations.
When asked to rate their decision to attend Vanderbilt, their experience as a student and their current opinion of the university, the vast majority answered with “excellent or “good.” Those opinions are most strongly influenced by how the equity of their degree increases over time. The biggest influences on growth in that value relates to academics, career preparation, relationship with faculty, lessons about life and traditions or values learned on campus.
Alumni believe strongly that the university prepared them well for their careers and graduate education, and they credit Vanderbilt with instilling in them a commitment to continuous education. Those beliefs translate to a desire for programs that support career preparation, especially among young alumni.
“Vanderbilt alumni are clearly interested in job opportunities as well as networking with each other,” says Stewart. “Events like our 34-city annual Networking Night bring together alumni who represent a span across class years and professions. Many jobs and internships have been secured through Commodore connections made at events like this.”
And, while alumni care about the university’s standing and career opportunities, they also look to remain actively involved with the university. They want to help identify job opportunities for graduates, network with other alumni, serve as ambassadors or advocates, and provide financial support. The Vanderbilt Alumni Association currently offers many ways for alumni to engage, and actively seeks new opportunities to meet the needs of our alumni.
Vanderbilt will continue to survey alumni on a regular basis. “Listening to what our alumni care about, and following up on their recommendations is the best way to keep them engaged.” Stewart says. “Our goal is to help all alumni grow personally and professionally and believe the best way to do that is to help them strengthen their ties to each other and to Vanderbilt.”