What influences college baseball alumni to donate to their alma mater

This action research project examines college baseball alumni at six public NCAA Division II schools in Minnesota. A random sample of 30 alumni from each school was surveyed to determine which donation factors motivated alumni to donate to their alma mater. The survey also gathered factors leading to increased giving and data for popular alumni events. Findings from the study revealed college baseball alumni are loyal to the program they played for and determined to increase the program's prestige. To entice alumni to financially support the baseball program, and increase their donation, measures such as newsletters, more alumni events, and more interaction from the lead coach appear to be important components of a fundraising program. Golf tournaments and alumni baseball games were the two most popular events of survey respondents. Results of this study will provide information for baseball coaches and athletic fundraising staff interested in alumni giving.