Graduation Year

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Ed.D.

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Degree Granting Department

Language, Literacy, ED.D., Exceptional Education, and Physical Education

Major Professor

Barbara C. Cruz, Ed.D

Committee Member

Jane Applegate, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Christopher Combie, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Jacqueleen Reyes Hull, Ed.D

Keywords

Alumni engagement, alumni perceptions, barriers to alumni engagement, faculty perceptions of alumni engagement

Abstract

Alumni engagement plays an increasingly important role in supporting graduate program mission, reputation, and long-term sustainability. Despite its recognized value, limited research examines alumni engagement within graduate level programs from a practitioner perspective. The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions of alumni engagement among alumni, faculty, and staff within the University of South Florida (USF) Physician Assistant Program and to identify any needs or gaps in current engagement opportunities. This study employed a survey-based research design to gather data from two stakeholder groups from the USF PA Program: alumni and faculty/staff. A review of program records provided data regarding current levels of engagement within the program. Surveys explored participants’ experiences with alumni engagement, their perceived barriers to engagement, and factors that encouraged engagement. Analysis of survey responses and engagement records revealed that there are many alumni who are already engaged within one or more areas of the program, and that there are several challenges that alumni face even when they want to engage. The findings offer actionable guidance for the USF PA Program and other graduate and professional programs seeking to enhance alumni engagement. Recommendations emphasize the importance of intentional communication in a variety of formats as well as considering options to reach alumni in other geographical areas. These are in addition to continuing social events, volunteer opportunities, and financial requests. By incorporating alumni, faculty, and staff perspectives into the design and implementation of engagement initiatives, graduate programs can identify the actual needs of alumni and the program and increase likelihood of participation.

Download

Share

COinS