Educate Plus International Conference

‍

OPGA is continually looking for ways to improve our offerings with the aim of connecting with all alumni members in a meaningful and authentic way. In September, Laura Vatousios, OPGA’s Alumni Manager attended an International Advancement Conference in Perth, connecting with schools all over Australia and the Asia Pacific region. Networking benefits aside, here are just a few of her key takeaways:

‍

-         Generational shift: OPGA heard from keynote speaker Mark McCrindle about experiencing the largest generational shift since the birth of post-war Baby Boomers. We are seeing the largest and most formally educated generation ever with today’s youth valuing purpose and meaning in work and life above all. There is also data that 71% of Gen Z report feeling lonely. It’s crucial today more than ever that we stay real and authentic in our communication and do so in a way that relates to broad segments of alumni members. We need to provide alumni offerings that recognise and respond to the generational shift while maintaining a strong, authentic connection to tradition and storytelling. It can be a really difficult balance to get right but the outcomes are well worth the investment!

-         Bequest Programs: If done well, these can be powerful in more ways than just financial outcome, building a strong sense of belonging and pride. All schools/alumni associations should prioritise these and create a giving program that aligns to alumni values and preferences.

-         Writing for a ‘Distracted Digital Audience’. Today, most people on social media do not ‘read’ content, but rather ‘scroll’ through it. Social media should be simplified with authentic engagement achieved through warmth and storytelling which humanises content - particularly important for alumni teams!

-         Clean data – The same database challenges facing OPGA are experienced across the industry and the investment in database researchers or data tools are crucial to the success of alumni programs and meaningful connection.

OPGA has many exciting ideas to share with you soon and feel inspired to enter 2025 with renewed focus and energy.

‍