When schools finally turn their attention to alumni engagement, the instinct is often to digitize the archives—posting old yearbooks, class rosters, or school history timelines.

But that’s not what drives alumni back to your site—or back to your campus.

What alumni actually want is connection, relevance, and purpose. If your alumni page doesn’t deliver those three things, it’s not doing its job.

1. A Way to Stay Involved

Alumni want to know how they can participate—whether that’s attending an event, mentoring students, joining a volunteer effort, or supporting a fundraiser. Clear CTAs matter more than nostalgia.

2. Updates That Feel Personal

No one wants to scroll through dry board announcements. Feature real stories: alumni spotlights, mission-driven careers, or “where are they now” pieces. Show that you still see them as part of the community.

3. Opportunities to Give With Meaning

Donations should feel like a continuation of the mission—not just a line item. Tie giving opportunities to specific goals: scholarships, curriculum expansion, or campus improvements alumni would care about.

So no, they don’t need a scanned copy of the 1998 yearbook. They need a reason to come back—and a website that makes it easy.

Need help designing an alumni experience that’s clean, clear, and built for connection? Here’s how to make your alumni section useful—without making it a mess.