Date of Award

12-1981

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Educational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Uldis Smidchens

Second Advisor

Dr. Carol Sheffer

Third Advisor

Dr. Linda Delene

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine which variables (alumni characteristics) may influence the giving pattern of alumni to their alma mater. With American colleges facing a continuing need for funds, a clear understanding of factors which may influence alumni giving is vital.

A questionnaire was mailed to all of the alumni of Los Angeles Baptist College. After receiving responses from 54% of the alumni contacted, the data were analyzed to determine whether certain alumni characteristics affected whether an alumnus was a donor or nondonor. The 28 alumni characteristics studied were divided into five categories: (a) academic achievement, (b) financial factors, (c) extra-curricular involvement, (d) present circumstances and attitudes, and (e) precollege circumstances.

It was determined that the following areas of alumni characteristics were predictive of alumni support: (a) level of involvement as students or as alumni, (b) family situation of alumni, (c) income level of alumni, (d) age of alumni, and (e) current attitude of alumni toward their alma mater.

The following areas of alumni characteristics were not predictive of alumni support: (a) distance from campus, (b) frequency of disciplinary action for inappropriate social behavior, (c) precollege circumstances, (d) academic achievements, and (e) method used to finance education.

It was concluded that certain alumni characteristics may influence whether alumni are donors or nondonors. With America's private colleges facing a future complicated by continued cost increases and a potential drop in enrollment, private college administrators must maximize every legitimate source of gift revenue. A proper understanding of alumni characteristics which are predictive of donors will aid college officials in raising funds from their alumni.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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