Alumni Participation Rate a Factor in College Ranking
Within higher education circles, the phrase "alumni participation rate" is frequently discussed. At times, the phrase is also mentioned to alumni during Call-A-Ram or as a part of other fundraising efforts. What is "alumni participation rate" and how does it affect our work within the College of Engineering?
Simply put, the alumni participation rate is the percentage of alumni who give to their alma mater, College or Department. This rate has become a topic of discussion because it has come to directly impact the prestige of educational programs. For example, when it publishes its annual rankings of colleges and universities, U.S. News & World Report uses the alumni giving participation rate as its only indicator of alumni satisfaction. A high alumni participation rate can be indicative of our strength as a College and represents the confidence that our alumni have in the direction of the institution. In other words, the support of alumni is crucial not only for the resources this support provides, but also builds the prestige of the College and University and adds to the value of their degrees.
As the College moves up in national rankings, we will be able to continue to attract quality students, recruit outstanding faculty who are dedicated to the total educational experience of our students and increase financial support from foundations and corporations.
Every gift a graduate of the department makes counts towards the alumni participation rate. Every gift - whether $5, $25, $100 or $10,000 - has an immediate and important impact. Help the College of Engineering keep our numbers rising by making a gift to the area that means the most to you.
For more information, contact Shannon Davis at (970) 491-7028 or supportengineering@engr.colostate.edu.