A SAIS alumni survey has been completed and the results, while encouraging, offer some guidance for improving alumni relations.

Founded at the end of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War, SAIS is a relatively young school—nearly 64 years old. The school's alumni base is still growing and, though widely dispersed, is highly devoted to SAIS.

In spring 2006, the Office of Alumni Relations joined with eAdvancement, a consortium of independent consultants that provides strategic guidance in alumni and constituent relations, to survey the school's alumni. Based on 400 telephone interviews, the survey results extend beyond anecdotal information, providing SAIS's leadership with a statistically accurate estimate of alumni opinions and attitudes regarding their alma mater.

Today, SAIS is a top-ranked school for a master's degree in international relations. Its alumni generally have very positive attitudes about the school; in fact, pride in the SAIS degree shows up as the strongest positive feeling among graduates.

These positive feelings are matched with rather weak connections to the current life of the school. Alumni love SAIS, but in some ways, they have not been offered enough ways to remain involved. Over time, some alumni gradually lose their connection to SAIS, and those who remain engaged sometimes doubt that fellow alumni are still involved and interested in the school.

Survey results make clear that building an alumni program that rekindles connections and creates opportunities to support the school is paramount. With Dean Jessica P. Einhorn's encouragement, the Alumni Relations Office has put the finishing touch on a plan for a revitalized alumni council in 2007 and an expanded alumni relations program—including a SAIS Alumni College this fall.

The inaugural alumni college will be held in Washington, D.C., October 10–12. This event offers a unique opportunity for alumni to refresh their knowledge of international affairs while addressing timely, relevant issues facing professionals in today's complex world. Seminars will be taught by SAIS's preeminent faculty. In addition, the program will allow participants to connect with faculty members and fellow alumni. More details about the alumni college will be made available over the coming year.

SAIS is grateful to the alumni who shared their views during the survey.