Want to immediately boost alumni engagement? The secret is personalization, and your archives hold the key. In this concluding episode, Dr. Kristen Gwinn-Becker, CEO of History IT, explains how schools can effectively use a truly accessible digital archive for alumni and donor relations. The strategy is simple: connect donors and alumni with content about their personal experience—their photos, class events, or specific interests—to "move the needle further than a cold, general email." For schools ready to start, Dr. Gwinn-Becker emphasizes the essential first step: a strategic plan that begins with a comprehensive collection assessment. Don't just "jump in" and scan files only to lose them later; prioritize true preservation and accessibility through meticulous cataloging and tagging. Her final, most crucial advice for school leaders: start early and ensure your investment is focused on making materials searchable and meaningful, as this is where the real value lies.

Key Takeaways: Learn how personalized archival content drives donor relations; understand the critical role of a collection assessment and strategic plan; and prioritize accessibility—the tagging and cataloging—to ensure your archive brings new value.

Action: Dive deeper into preservation planning! Contact our guest Dr. Kristen Gwinn-Becker at www.historyIT.com or on social media at HistoryIT and #savehistory.