Get caught in the net – the FishNet that is.
The Alumni Association has officially launched its new online community, just for Virginia Wesleyan alumni that allows them to stay connected with each other and the College. The service is free, and like other popular online communities this exciting feature will allow people miles away to stay in touch without ever having to leave their personal computers.
The idea came up as emerging technology has changed the way people communicate over the years. In addition, colleges similar to Virginia Wesleyan were having great success with online communities, says Director of Alumni Relations Beth Clarke '98.
"Alumni are often looking to reconnect with fellow classmates, and they contact the Alumni Office to assist them with locating their lost friends," said Clarke. "By providing the alumni online community, we are seeking to make the process of connecting with other alumni easier than ever before."
The connection is easy and Marlin alumni are sure to enjoy modern technological features that are just a click away. Utilizing a simple interface, individuals of all ages can post alumni announcements such as weddings, births and employment updates, search alumni profiles and attach a resume for networking opportunities.
"The best advantage is that alumni can search for classmates' contact, business and club/organization affiliations through both simple and advanced search options," she said. This means less time searching and more time making connections with classmates.
Approximately 7,000 alumni are included in the online community. Profiles are visible to others and users have control over what personal information is displayed. Clarke hopes that Virginia Wesleyan alumni will take advantage of the program and the many features it has to offer such as giving alumni a sense of community.
"The Alumni Association hopes that FishNet will encourage more alumni than ever before to stay active with and take pride in their alma mater," Clarke said.
And although the program may just be beginning, there are endless possibilities.
"There are many opportunities for FishNet to grow in the future," said Clarke. "The Alumni Association would love to add additional networking features, such as opportunities to volunteer as a mentor for current VWC students or opportunities for social networking similar to other popular Web sites."
FishNet is provided by Harris Interactive, the Chesapeake based company that specializes in directory programs for alumni clubs, independent and parochial secondary schools, as well as nonprofit and membership-based associations.
To access FishNet, the official online community for Virginia Wesleyan Alumni, visit http://www.vwc.edu/alumni and click on the FishNet logo.
It takes four easy steps to register:
1. Scroll to first time visitors section on the main page and click register now
2. Enter name and class year
3. Select your record
4. Verify your information by entering your personal access identification. Note: All alumni who have not received this identification number by e-mail should contact fishnet@vwc.edu to receive their personal ID.
Once alumni have accepted the terms and conditions and username/password they’re connected!
Comments? Questions? Contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 757.455.3298 or e-mail fishnet@vwc.edu.