Building a strong alumni community: RSU Alumni Association sets out five-year strategic priorities

The Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Alumni Association continues to develop as an active, inclusive, and influential community, uniting more than 1,900 members across Latvia and abroad. This number grows with each graduation season, confirming that alumni value staying connected with the university and each other. 

‘We are truly proud to have almost 2,000 members – the number has grown as it usually does after graduations. It is important to note that we are our association doesn’t have a membership fee. Every year, we invite our members to donate according to their ability and willingness.’

Paula Jumīte, RSU AA Executive Director

Five-year goals: purposefulness, engagement, impact

In order to ensure purposeful and sustainable development, the RSU Alumni Association has set three key strategic directions for the next five years (2025-2030):

1. Developing a sustainable alumni culture and enhancing members’ competencies

   The Association’s goal is not only to strengthen the connection between alumni but also to support their professional and personal growth. This is part of its commitment to promote lifelong learning, mutual support, and the transfer of experience to future generations. The development of a new digital alumni platform is also a step in this direction – it will serve as a modern environment to meet, share experiences, gain new knowledge, and stay informed about current events.

2. Purposeful engagement of members in planning and implementing events

   Recognising that the needs of different generations and interest groups vary, the Association has organised focus groups with alumni from various fields and graduation years to better understand their preferences, interests, and needs. This data will help develop more targeted and comprehensive events that are appropriate to their audiences. Every member should feel that their voice is heard and their opinion taken into account.

3. Increasing the impact of alumni in achieving the University’s goals

   Alumni are a vital resource, able to support the university both with their knowledge and extensive professional networks. At the same time, they are also ambassadors for RSU in society. Therefore, one of the Association’s strategic goals is to increase alumni visibility and involvement in the University’s processes, whether as mentors for students, experts in various fields, or partners in educational and research initiatives. The aim is for alumni to become full-fledged collaboration partners and an integral part of every RSU initiative and event.

Looking ahead with energy and a strategy

To achieve these goals, a comprehensive five-year strategy will be developed by September 2025, based on the results of the focus groups and the vision of the board. The newly elected board, which has only recently begun its work, is full of energy, ready to take on challenges and implement ambitious plans. This is a time of change and growth that RSU alumni will feel in the Association’s events, communication, and overall activities.

The RSU Alumni Association has always been a place where enthusiasm, responsibility, and a shared willingness to do more come together. With clearly defined goals, a structured plan, and the support of its members, the future looks promising and full of opportunities.