FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
San Diego State University Alumni Association Membership Surpasses 10,000
CONTACT: Renee Hix, (619) 594-5204, Rhix@mail.sdsu.edu
SAN DIEGO, Monday May 15, 2000 - San Diego State University's Alumni Association credits more aggressive marketing efforts with a 69 percent increase in membership over the past two years, resulting in more than 10,000 active dues-paying members.
"This is an important milestone in the history of our association - we are larger than we've ever been," said Tammy Blackburn, associate director of marketing and membership for the Alumni Association. "To get here, we've launched a number of highly aggressive and innovative outreach programs in a short amount of time targeting graduating seniors, international alumni and those inclined toward lifetime memberships."
With a highly organized and strategic membership renewal program, the SDSU Alumni Association has a 77 percent renewal response rate, which rates among the nation's highest for alumni associations.
The association also recently launched a new web site, www.sdsualumni.org, where alumni can initiate or renew their membership, and reunite and stay connected through chat rooms, alumni news, class notes and online directories.
SDSU President Stephen L. Weber said that building stronger alumni support is among the University's top priorities. "Establishing strong ties with our alumni is critically important," said Weber. "By staying connected with our alumni in meaningful ways, we can provide them with ongoing learning and growth opportunities."
While 82 percent of alumni live in California, SDSU Alumni Association chapters are forming around the globe. In the summer of 1999 the first international chapter was chartered in Taiwan. Most recently, four new chapters were recognized, including the Imperial Valley Chapter, the Child and Family Development Chapter, the Orange County Chapter and the Sacramento Capitol Chapter. Chapter memberships provide networking opportunities for SDSU alumni who share cultural, professional, regional and other special interests.
San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Since it was founded in 1897, it has grown to offer bachelor's degrees in 76 areas, master's degrees in 59 areas and doctorates in 13. SDSU's more than 30,000 students participate in academic curriculum distinguished by direct contact with professors and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information, log onto www.sdsu.edu.
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