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Alumni Attitude Study
We are excited to share the results of our recent Alumni Attitude Study (AAS), a national research initiative designed to capture the experiences, perceptions, and opinions of our alumni. Conducted in collaboration with the Performance Enhancement Group (PEG), a leader in alumni engagement research and consulting, this study has provided us with valuable insights into how our alumni feel about their connection to OHIO. The findings from the AAS will help guide our efforts to strengthen relationships with our alumni, improve engagement strategies, and ensure that we continue to foster a thriving and supportive alumni community, and we’re always open to hearing from our alumni and friends!
Have something to say? We'd love to hear from you! Provide your feedback anytime by using the link below.
Alumni Attitude Study Details
- The Alumni Attitude Study (AAS or Study) has been completed by more than 1,000,000 alumni at over 320 educational institutions throughout the last 20 years
- The 2025 Ohio University Study results are compared to a national average of past participants (70+ institutions) from the last 5 years and the prior Study from 2023.
OHIO Alumni Respondent Demographics
- Responses: 2,354
- All 50 states represented, other than Mississippi
- 85% are white, 4% are black
- 52% are male, 44% are female
Affinity Index
Ohio University 2025: 80%, National Average 2025 = 79%
The Affinity Index is calculated as the average of:
- How would you rate your decision to attend Ohio University?
- How often do you promote Ohio University to others?
- Which of the following best describes your experiences as an alumnus/a?
- Which of the following best describes your overall current opinion of Ohio University?
High-Level Highlights
- 96% of alumni report a good or excellent experience as a student
- 94% of alumni promote Ohio University to others
- 58% of alumni feel connected to OHIO
Areas of Opportunity
Career Services & Support
Many respondents, particularly older alumni, feel that career services are not relevant to them. There is also a perception that the university does not adequately prepare students for the job market or provide sufficient career support post-graduation.
Did you know?
Ohio University offers a variety of career resources for alumni. Through the Bobcat Network, you can connect with fellow Bobcats for mentorship, job opportunities, and professional development. The network also features an alumni-only job board, allowing you to share and discover job postings within the OHIO community.
Alumni Engagement & Communication
Some alumni feel disconnected from the university, citing a lack of meaningful engagement beyond requests for donations. There is a call for more information on alumni services and events, as well as better communication about how donations are used.
Did you know?
The Ohio University Alumni Association provides many ways for alumni to engage beyond giving money. Alumni are invited to give of their time, talent, and testimony by attending events, mentoring students, and referring future Bobcats!
Financial Concerns & Priorities
The cost of tuition and the financial burden on students and alumni are significant concerns. Some alumni prioritize other charitable causes over donating to the university due to these financial pressures.
Did you know?
We need alumni to support students now more than ever ! Alumni giving directly support scholarships, emergency funds, and career services that help reduce the burden for current and future Bobcats. Even small donations, when combined across the alumni community, can make a big impact in lightening that financial load for the next generation.
Core Alumni Insights and Statistics
The Ohio University alumni community is a powerful force that doesn’t end at graduation. Here’s a look at the numbers that highlight their impact, engagement, and continued connection to Ohio University.
📍 Alumni Reach
- 280,000+ alumni across all 50 states and 100+ countries
- 63k+ alumni engage with the University each year
- 30+ regional and affinity networks worldwide
💚 Alumni Engagement
- 11,000 + Bobcats registered on the Bobcat Network
- 10,000+ alumni participated in events last year
- 9,000 + give back philanthropically to support current and future students
💼 Alumni Career Impact
- Bobcats work at top employers like Nike and Google
- Thousands of alumni mentors are available through the Bobcat Network
- Brand new job board for OHIO grads on Career Shift
Want to Get Involved ?
- The Ohio University Alumni Association held more than 160 eventsin 2024. Find an event near you
- From serving on advisory boards, to speaking in a classroom, thousands of alumnivolunteer every year, and you can too! Explore volunteer opportunities
- Stay up to date on all things OHIO
In FY24:
57,024
Alumni engaging through digital channels
10,095
Alumni that attended events
9,841
Alumni that give back financially
5,315
Alumni volunteers
President’s Dynamic Strategy
OHIO’s Dynamic Strategy is a forward-thinking framework designed to drive growth, innovation, and excellence. It focuses on building a more connected community, emphasizing student collaboration and tangible outcomes. As a vital part of this vision, the Ohio University Alumni Association plays a key role in fostering lifelong connections, supporting university initiatives, and ensuring that alumni actively engage with students throughout their OHIO journey—offering mentorship, job opportunities, and professional expertise.
Learn more about how alumni data is reflected in OHIO's Dynamic Strategy
Questions?
Email alumni@ohio.edu