Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE): “Successful Students, Supportive Alumni”

Writing for CASE’s Currents Magazine, Elliot Felix and Nancy Felix argue that to secure future philanthropic support, higher education institutions must prioritize the current student experience. We observe that long-term alumni loyalty is rooted in a deep sense of belonging and success established during undergraduate years. By aligning advancement goals with student services, such as career mentorship and financial aid initiatives, administrators can create a "win-win" ecosystem. This shift moves away from treating students solely as future donors and instead focuses on providing immediate value, ensuring that graduates feel supported and motivated to give back.