product Affinity Matching Create more inclusive communities of belonging by connecting alumni and students based on interests and background By MAX LEISTEN Many institutions are laser-focused on affinity communities (such as student groups, varsity sports, or regional chapters) because it’s…
Why networking platforms are plateauing (1 of 5) Your alumni already have too many apps By MAX LEISTEN We’re drowning in apps. Microsoft offers over 35 million apps through its online store, Google about 3.5 million, and Apple about 2.2…
storytime DUKE GRADUATE STUDENT WONDERS WHEN TO GET A PHD By MAX LEISTEN When I speak to an alumni or advancement leader, about 15 minutes into the conversation I typically get: “Well, can anybody ask a question? Can alumni ask?…
storytime CSU NORTHRIDGE ALUM AND THEIR MARKET TRADING EXPERIENCE By MAX LEISTEN Not every need (question) we get from alumni and students is about career success (many are). Here’s a great example of seeking mentorship on a passion: options trading. …
storytime WISH THIS OHIO UNIVERSITY ALUM HAD TALKED TO ME By MAX LEISTEN Every time a business student asks me what career she should pursue, I answer “start with sales.” There are few skills so universally valuable as selling (and…
storytime PITT ALUM ENTREPRENEUR EXPLORING FINTECH STARTUP By MAX LEISTEN Alumni communities are amazing gold mines of expertise and connections. That’s particularly true for entrepreneurs building and growing their startups. Asking for help and insights is (should be) second nature…
storytime DUKE STUDENT AIDING SYRIAN REFUGEES By MAX LEISTEN “Needs” don’t have to be super long (although we do recommend a proven formula for getting help) if you’re concise. The below is a great example for this – but more…
storytime MICHIGAN FINANCE MAJOR PURSUING HIS PASSION FOR MUSIC By MAX LEISTEN It’s pretty hard to “find our calling.” Most of us never do (I was fortunate enough to be able to “jump” into Protopia). It takes courage, persistence, mentorship,…
practitioner perspective Samantha Varner Cal State Northridge By RYAN CATHERWOOD Last week I had the opportunity to sit down with Samantha Varner, Director of Alumni Engagement at California State University – Northridge (CSUN). I asked Samantha to share with our…
storytime ASPIRING SIU FIRST-GEN STUDENT ENTREPRENEUR LOOKING FOR HELP REVITALIZING HER COMMUNITY By MAX LEISTEN Universities are gold mines of good will, social capital that can enable meaningful outcomes for alumni, students, faculty and even staff. I often share stories…
