External Relations and The Essential First Step to Digital Archives

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.

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