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Strategic Pillars

Tech with a Conscience

  • Tech Forward Reputation

    “Become known for integrating technology through the alumni experience.”

    Actions:

          • Conduct alumni experience mapping, using Alumni survey persona profiles, to identify opportunities for technology-based improvements.
          • Experiment with innovative and interactive content development to enhance alumni engagement.
          • Explore opportunities to leverage digital tools and formats to enable alumni to alumni connections.
  • Data-Driven Engagement

    “Use data analytics to tailor and improve how we connect with alumni.”

    Actions:

          • Review and optimize the use of the current CRM system and communications tools.
          • Refine the data-collection framework for data-driven decision making, leveraging findings from the Alumni survey and ongoing data collection.
          • Explore opportunities to integrate AI and predictive modeling into engagement efforts.
          • Utilize data analytics to identify trends and insights for effective alumni segmentation.
          • Develop and implement an evaluation framework to evaluate alumni satisfaction and engagement on a regular basis.

Alumni Engagement Re-Imagined

  • Unique Engagement

    “Leave a lasting impression through memorable experiences alumni cannot get anywhere else.”

    Actions:

          • Create sub-segments of alumni and develop targeted engagement approaches for each segment.
          • Prioritize 1-2 signature events annually, that link specifically to Ontario Tech's vision, mission and brand.
          • Deliver exceptional event attendee experiences consistently.
  • Early Engagement

    “Concentrate on engaging alumni in the first five years after graduation.”

    Actions:

          • Develop a detailed plan including specific programming and initiatives focused on alumni within their first five years post-graduation.
          • Develop a Welcome Program for new alumni, supporting the transition from students to recent graduates.
  • Invitation to Action

    "Make direct, action focused requests to alumni for engagement, and present them with straightforward paths to meaningfully contribute and stay connected post-graduation.”

    Actions:

          • Create distinct calls to action in marketing and communication materials.
          • Foster active participation by communicating ‘how’ to engage as an alumni and increasing opportunities for two-way communication.
          • Record meaningful alumni engagements and mindfully review strategies and tactics to ensure the 30,000 engagement goal remains on track.
  • Mentoring and Career Growth

    “Foster opportunities for alumni to advance professionally.”

    Actions:

          • Review, reimagine and relaunch an Alumni Mentoring Program.
          • Increase awareness about existing Ontario Tech programming available to alumni that is specifically focused on career growth.

Sticky Campus

  • Moments that Matter

    “Connect with alumni at significant milestones and anniversaries.”

    Actions:

          • Invite and involve alumni in memorable and novel on-campus experiences.
          • Recognize alumni milestones and leverage them as re-engagement opportunities.
  • Activate Alumni Expertise for Student Success

    “Increase the involvement of alumni who contribute their skills and leadership to Ontario Tech, current student experiences and targeted volunteerism.”

    Actions:

          • Develop a volunteering program tailored to alumni.
          • Connect with existing students and student groups to build awareness of the role of Alumni Relations.
          • Identify opportunities for alumni to contribute to undergraduate and graduate education and encourage participation on advisory committees and boards.
  • Encourage Life-Long Learning

    "Continue to provide continuous learning opportunities and resources to support personal and professional growth long after graduation."

    Actions:

          • Partner with continuous learning to promote life-long learning and career development opportunities.
          • Invite alumni to participate in faculty events or presentations that focus on key industry trends, emerging technologies and personal development topics.

Partnerships

  • Advancing Ontario Tech Objectives

    “Partner with faculties and departments to tailor alumni engagement activities to advance the university’s overarching strategic goals.”

    Actions:

          • Develop an Ontario Tech Alumni Engagement Advisory Committee to become a trusted entry point for alumni engagement, facilitating connections and providing faculty and departments access to data and resources.
          • Create pathways for alumni to leave a lasting legacy and support Ontario Tech’s mission through giving opportunities.
          • Leverage existing initiatives, programming and events that align to Ontario Tech’s strategic priorities and showcase the impact of teaching and research at Ontario Tech.
          • Identify opportunities to enhance the strategic role of the Alumni Association.
          • Identify opportunities to support initiatives across campus through connections to alumni.
  • Industry Partnership Opportunities

    “Collaborate with the partnership office and work with alumni to forge strong industry connections.”

    Actions:

          • Understand the Partnership Office's strategic goals for connecting with alumni and partner to achieve outcomes.
          • Leverage the alumni network to create partnerships with industry.
          • Build on the success of previous multi-stakeholder events that connect alumni, faculty, students and community partners to amplify impact and collaboration.

Telling our Story

  • Brand Impact and Amplification

    "Work with Communications and Marketing to highlight the contributions of alumni and bolster the brand."

    Actions:

          • Review and update the alumni engagement marketing and communication plan.
          • Showcase and recognize alumni who make significant contributions in their fields and who embody ‘tech with a conscience.'
          • Inspire university value of alumni-related communications.

  • Elevate Alumni Engagement

    “Increase the visibility and importance of alumni involvement throughout the university.”

          • Refine and execute an internal communications plan sharing alumni engagement strategies and actions, alumni data and highlighting the value of strong alumni relationships.
          • Work closely with faculties and groups to ensure alumni news is widely shared.
          • Heavily support programming and activities that utilize alumni data and achievements.
          • Provide regular Strategic Plan progress reporting on targets and goals.