Direct mail surveys can be an effective method of surveying alumni, but a good survey takes careful planning, scheduling, execution, and follow-up. A six-month timetable is recommended, with three mailings and attention to a variety of details, such as the quality of the survey package and the recording of responses. (MSE)

Alumni associations wishing to attract younger graduates with their programming may find they need to assess the interests and needs of this group carefully including their reasons for participating in continuing education programs, time constraints, travel costs, family responsibilities, and professional development needs. (MSE)

Colleges and universities are using innovative methods to improve services that affect the institution's enrollment-management function, primarily in registration and information management. Registrars' offices can also promote academic excellence by incorporating honors into transcripts, participate in student recruitment by providing timely…

Strategies for recruiting and keeping alumni for college volunteer programs address specific issues: demands on personal time; length of assignment; accommodating spouses and divorced alumni; generation gaps; advancing technology; economic climate; occupational and geographic mobility; and competition with other organizations for volunteers' time.…