Staying connected with West Valley College has never been easier — with the May 21 launch of the Ignite the Next Alumni Association. The official alumni network, unveiled at our 61st WVC Commencement, invites past students to help shape the future of alumni engagement at West Valley.
Rooted in the Ignite the Next vision, the alumni association will celebrate alumni achievements and empower graduates to inspire future Vikings through mentorship, networking, advocacy, philanthropy, and lifelong engagement, said Vice President of Strategy & Equity Andrea Vizenor, who established the group.
“It’s a big step forward,” said Vizenor, noting that few California Community Colleges offer formal alumni programs. “We’re signaling our commitment to our relationship with students as they move on to four-year college or the world of work and become future employers and philanthropic donors.”
In support of the project, Vizenor’s team is building a secure database known as a CRM, for customer relationship management. Serving as a digital alumni directory, a CRM helps track and record alumni interactions such as event attendance, volunteer service, mentoring, and donations. CRMs assist colleges in staying in touch with alumni, sharing opportunities, and building lasting relationships.
Signature Ignite the Next Alumni Association programs and events will range from presenting Distinguished Alumni Awards to hosting career networking mixers.