If you are looking to grow your chapter and increase membership, this guide offers a variety of ideas and strategies to help you get started. Every alumni chapter is unique, with its own community, resources, and goals, so not every approach will work the same way for everyone. Use this guide as a flexible resource to explore new opportunities, strengthen engagement, and build meaningful connections among alumni in ways that best fit your chapter’s needs and culture.

Communication

Strong, consistent communication is one of the most powerful drivers of chapter growth. When alumni know who you are, what you’re doing, and how to get involved, they are far more likely to participate, stay connected, and invite others to join. Use a variety of communication tools and formats to reach alumni wherever they are.

• Create a dedicated chapter email account to manage outreach and maintain consistency.
• Establish chapter social media accounts to share updates, photos, and upcoming events.
• Develop and maintain a chapter directory, including member email addresses.
• Send regular emails from the chapter (and coordinate broader messages with WVU Alumni Association staff when appropriate).
• Ensure your chapter information is listed and visible on the official alumni website.
• Consider an annual postcard mailer to reach alumni who may not be active online.
• Design and print business cards for chapter leaders to share at events and in the community.