Alumni lead the way with ambitious plan

Jun, 2009

Members of the Alumni Council have signed off an ambitious three-year Workplan which is set to be a lighthouse for how alumni can support institutions in their reach for excellence.  

After a full-day meeting in May, at which the Workplan was finalised, President, Frank Zipfinger, Chairman of Mallesons Stephen Jaques,  commented that:

“We are proud to participate in advancing the School in its strategic objectives and to be the catalyst for wider alumni support of the School, philanthropically and in other ways.” 


The Workplan is built on four platforms:  the MBS Board, Council Committees, individual member major initiatives and individual member giving.

The Council provides advocacy and advice on strategic issues and the Council President contributes to the governance of the School through membership on the Board.   

The major work of the Council is conducted via a committee structure with clear goals in terms of strengthening alumni programs and outreach around the world, brokering partnerships for the School with the corporate sector, both nationally and internationally, strengthening the prospective student pool globally and deepening the School’s philanthropic support for scholarships, fellowships and endowed professorial Chairs.   

The Council’s three-year plan has targets for each of these key goals:   

•    To act as a catalyst for at least 15 new partnerships with Australian corporate, Government and not-for-profit entities. The partnerships include internships, major sponsorships, key presenters from the three sectors and in-company events.

•    To market the School and its programs to potential students through relevant market research, acting as School ambassadors at national and international fairs and events that encourage alumni to volunteer.

•    To be the catalyst for $3 million in philanthropic gifts, including alumni fundraising initiatives, other individual giving and special projects with corporate partners.  The Council has set itself a target of 100% participation in the Annual Fund, with strong encouragement to participate at least at the level of Dean’s Circle ($1000 per annum).

•    To support the alumni program around the globe, through supporting Chapter Leaders in developing Local Chapter Plans.  These will cover the full range of alumni activities with specific focus on lifelong learning, thought leadership programs, marketing and advocacy, recruitment of students and philanthropy.

In support of the overall Council Workplan, each member has agreed to:

•    Serve on at least one committee and spearhead at least one project.

•    Assist with at least one alumni, current or prospective student event, including hosting events at home and at their places of employment.

•    Provide support to the School on a pro bono basis where their expertise is relevant to the School.

•    Support the School philanthropically.

The School Leadership Team has congratulated the Council on its vision and Strategy Plan and has committed to fully support the Council in its work. 

There are many ways to support the Council.  Please contact Phyllis King P.King@mbs.edu for a copy of the Workplan or to discuss how you can get involved.

To learn more about the Alumni Council and its members, please visit the website.