What’s the benefit? Once upon a time, University at Buffalo alumni had to pay to be part of their alma mater’s network. But now the alumni association announced it will waive membership fees, a move that could result in it having more than 240,000 members. The association’s decision echoes remarks made by newly elected President Mary Garlick Roll, who said,”This board will help to move the alumni association along a path to realizing our potential.” And what better way to reach that potential than by expanding the membership pool?

Why it works: All alumni networks benefit from broad membership rolls where people can network and connect. By eliminating the biggest barrier to entry, University at Buffalo’s Alumni Association is doing its part to significantly grow its member count. One of the first steps was to expand its communication platforms, which it started by launching a digital platform for new members to engage with. “The website creates a network of people who can go to each other for career help or just to socialize with,” Office of Alumni Engagement Assistant Clay Connor told The Spectrum Student Editor Gabriela Julia.

Other benefits: The group offers numerous resources for career development and continuing education, including scholarships, webinars, and exclusive tools for new alumni looking to kickstart their careers. Julia also reported that the association will soon be introducing additional benefits to those who had already paid a lifetime membership fee.

(University at Buffalo)