Alumni Recollections of Interactions with Instructors and Current Organizational Identification, Commitment, and Support of the University

Abstract

Maintaining positive alumni relations is crucial for any university. This study explored the long-term effects rapport and memorable messages can have on alumni beliefs and behaviors. Results highlight the influence of instructor-student rapport on university organizational identification and social expectations for alumni. Both positive and negative memorable messages alumni received from faculty members, and the influence of these messages on alumni behaviors, emerged. Practical implications related to all stakeholders—faculty, students, and fundraising and development professionals—are forwarded.

Keywords:

• Alumni Relations
• Memorable Messages
• Organizational Identification
• Rapport

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.