From the judges: This creative project utilized existing systems to engage alumni business owners and at the same time offer a benefit to all alumni. The directory listing also encourages alumni data updates and alumni pride/support of fellow alumni.
GVSU Alumni Owned Business Directory
Category
Alumni Relations > Alumni Engagement on a Shoestring
Description
Award: Bronze
Institution: Grand Valley State University
Title of Entry: GVSU Alumni Owned Business Directory
About this Entry: Grand Valley State University’s Alumni Owned Business directory (www.gvsu.edu/alumni/business) is distinctive because we accomplished a lofty goal using in-house resources and a shoe-string budget, where typically vendors costing thousands of dollars are relied on to create a directory similar to ours. While the return on this investment is impossible to measure, we do know that it is far greater than our initial investment of $452.50 on window decals. We are offering free promotion and marketing for our Alumni Owned Businesses, obtaining new and updated information regarding our alumni, showcasing to students and perspective students the accomplishments of our alumni aiding in recruitment and retention, and forming connections between businesses whether that is between each other, with other alumni, and/or campus partners, such as the Career Center. Overall, we are proud of this project and its growing impact on our alumni and the Laker community.