CASE Presents: What schools can teach us about impactful fundraising and alumni engagement-Presentation

Presentation - International School of Brussels

Pdf Summary

The International School of Brussels (ISB) held its first-ever All Alumni Reunion, Summerfest, on June 8, 2024, inviting all alumni and former faculty without class restrictions. With 250 attendees from across graduating classes, this was ISB’s largest alumni event, aiming to revitalize community spirit, foster a sense of belonging, and reconnect alumni with each other, their teachers, and current ISB life. The event focused on creating a welcoming and meaningful experience rather than fundraising, emphasizing alumni engagement before philanthropy.<br /><br />The planning involved early save-the-date notices and multi-channel communication to reach 10,000 alumni and staff via email, social media, and the alumni platform. Summerfest featured a Brussels guided walking tour, campus shuttle, tour, speeches including from the Class of 1962 (the first HS graduating class), receptions, and goodie bags, all free of charge.<br /><br />Attendees highlighted emotional reconnection, fellowship, nostalgia, and appreciation for ISB’s sustained culture and legacy. Post-event efforts included thank-you emails, photo albums, videos, feedback, and social media sharing. Outcomes included launching a new alumni newsletter, mentorship program, alumni Instagram, increased reunion registrations, stronger engagement across platforms, and the launch of an Annual Fund.<br /><br />ISB’s year-round alumni engagement features international tours (Tokyo, New York, London, etc.), class reunions, virtual and in-person faculty gatherings, mentoring boards, and regular newsletters celebrating alumni stories and school news.<br /><br />Summerfest 2026 will celebrate ISB’s 75th Anniversary with expanded activities like athletic competitions, games, a food truck festival, and inclusion of current faculty and staff, fostering intergenerational connections. The event promises to honor ISB’s past, present, and future through shared experiences and community bonding.

Keywords

International School of Brussels

ISB Alumni Reunion

Summerfest 2024

Alumni Engagement

Community Spirit

Brussels Walking Tour

Alumni Mentorship Program

Annual Fund Launch

75th Anniversary Celebration

Intergenerational Connections