This article examines the philosophy behind alumni merchandising programs used by several colleges and universities, focusing on how alumni association directors determine which products best suit their mission and their audiences. It discusses techniques and products used by associations at Boston College and the Universities of New Hampshire,…

This article discusses the drawbacks of alumni merchandising, with alumni association directors voicing concerns about overloading alumni with solicitations and detracting from the associations' primary mission. It argues that if alumni associations must resort to merchandising, they should offer only high quality products. (MDM)

This article presents five basic guidelines for initiating a successful alumni merchandising program: (1) shop around for the best vendor; (2) decide what to sell; (3) manage merchandise properly; (4) watch out for risky business; and (5) get what you pay for. (MDM)

This article reviews the tax implications of alumni association merchandising programs, focusing on unrelated business income tax (UBIT) that nonprofit organizations, such as alumni associations, must pay on income derived from a trade or business not substantially related to their tax-exempt status. It also discusses postal regulations that…

A large part of any merchandising program is picking products that will sell. Sixty alumni professionals were asked about their ideas. Some of the winners included a watch with the institution's seal, a windsock, and athletic shoes. Some of the losers included a sweater and a commemorative plate. (MLW)

A 1989 centennial celebration at Thacher School in California prompted the college preparation boarding school to move from selling one item--the traditional striped school tie--to a range of products that matched their mission to celebrate their centennial and inspire alumni support. Thacher School found it is best to keep merchandise simple and…

Some suggestions for troubleshooting when problems develop with a college merchandising program cover topics such as delivery delays, product quality, promotional material, merchandise that outside manufacturers sell directly through ads in alumni magazines, and "lemons." (MLW)

Alumni professionals discuss starting an alumni merchandising program. Successful merchandising should address several needs including promotion of institutional pride and alumni commitment, provision of a service to alumni, and fund raising to underwrite alumni activities. Establishing guidelines, learning the market, inhouse sales, and outside…

Humor in college and university publications is helping editors and designers communicate to target audiences. Successful campus punmakers are identified at LaGuardia Community College, Brigham Young University, and Johns Hopkins. (MLW)