7 Timeless Swag Ideas for Your School Alumni that They Would Keep Forever
Ever wondered why Harvard hoodies and Yale sweatshirts remain so iconic? It’s not just about staying warm- it’s about showing off a piece of alma mater pride! These timeless pieces of swag represent more than just a school—they embody a shared history, tradition, and a sense of belonging that lasts a lifetime. Create keepsakes that students cherish, and gifts that families will love. By offering items that resonate with your school's values and identity, you're not just selling products; you're fostering a lifelong connection. This extended reach can significantly impact alumni engagement and boost donations.
Alumni events help boost fundraising.
“Somebody did it for me, and I want to make sure that I’m having the opportunity to do it for somebody else.” - Frederick Strobel, Class of 1974
In 2023, Princeton University set a new record with a 46% participation rate, raising an impressive $66.7 million. This achievement was possible by Princeton University’s annual reunion organized by the Princeton Area Alumni Association (PA3). The event, which welcomed all undergraduate and graduate students, parents of current and former students, and surviving partners of alumni, created a vibrant atmosphere of community and connection.
A must-do post to remind the alumni to look forward for Princeton Reunion 2024 @princetonalumni - Source
They help bridge generations of old and current students together!
Thanks to their “Forward Together” campaign, Princeton University has significantly impacted both former alumni and current students, making the alumni reunion more than just another traditional event. It’s a large-scale networking event with active participation from the alumni council.
“What’s special about reunions is getting to see all of your friends and making new ones in the sense of community.” Chris Olofson ‘92
Two generations adorned in Princeton Merch getting to be one during the Alumni Parade @princetonalumni- Source
Alumni, adorned in their campus colors of orange and black, parade around campus with their alma mater merchandise, meeting current students and attending various events. This experience serves as a powerful reminder of where they came from and the enduring connection they share with the university. Events like these further strengthen the learning process for the younger generation of students from their older alumni.
They help create a legacy of the alumni for their next generation.
More than anything, beyond the camaraderie students experience and meeting others, alumni are reminded of why it’s important for them to make a difference by reminiscing about their times and journey on campus. Collecting alumni merch, such as custom hoodies or mugs, serves as a lasting memento of the reunion and the impact of their contributions. This experience becomes even more special when they can share it with their children, who also receive child-sized merchandise, helping to instill a sense of pride and connection to the school from a young age.
The Princeton Alumni Merchandise also extends for children- Source
“All of us feel gratitude and an obligation to give back in many different ways, an annual giving is one of those most important ways.” - Rich fox ‘74
With the colors orange and black representing Princeton University, welcoming alumni back to their alma mater is more than just a celebration—it's an opportunity to gift them with merchandise that fosters ongoing connections as tokens of gratitude. Reunions like these hold significant meaning, as these school swag products are more than mere promotional tools—they are tangible connections that alumni cherish and revisit the campus celebrations.
How about turning your school’s swag into such a powerful symbol that it not only rekindles alumni pride but also fuels generous donations like Princeton University annually?
Here are a few swag ideas that will strengthen your alma mater and encourage them to be a part of your tradition.
Sustainable Gift to Inspire Alumni and Show You Care about the Greener Future
Picture this: your alumni proudly using eco-friendly gifts like reusable coffee mugs or kraft paper notebooks. These sustainable items aren’t just great for the planet—they also showcase your school's commitment to a greener future. Every time they use them, they’re reminded of your alma mater’s values and are inspired to give back to that mission.
Just like how Kavi the Poetry-Art Project curated a gift basket reflects their commitment to sustainability by adding coasters, plantable pens, wooden paper weight and a propagated plant. You can do the same with packing coasters, plastic-free pens, kraft paper notebooks, and tote bags in your sustainable swag gift bag.
Kavi the Poetry-Art Project Eco-friendly Gift Hamper- Source
If you find water bottles overused, you can replace them with Kaffeeform’s Weducer Cups, made from recycled coffee grounds and biodegradable. They are perfect for large-scale alumni meets, offering a sustainable alternative while enjoying warm coffee and gathering contacts.
Weducer Cup made from ground coffee by Kaffeeform- Source
Why not include a complete coffee cup set with a matching coaster? Check out how Phenomenex added a special touch by incorporating one of our coasters.
Gumtoo Customer: Custom Coaster for Phenomenex- Source
2. An essential keepsake for documents with Custom PVC Folder
A custom PVC folder isn't just a practical tool for organizing documents—it’s a stylish piece of swag that prominently displays your school's logo and mission. Imagine alumni flipping through these folders and feeling a deep connection to your institution every time they use them. This simple yet thoughtful gesture can significantly enhance the alumni experience, making them feel appreciated and linked to the school well beyond graduation.
Duke university Pocket Folder at Duke Online Store- Source
3. A sporty accessory for on the go- Custom Drawstring Bags
Imagine your alumni stepping out with a custom drawstring bag, each step exuding pure school pride! These bags aren't just for carrying gym gear or weekend essentials; they're the ultimate accessory for showcasing your school’s spirit wherever they go. They’re not just another bag; these drawstrings offer a lighter, more comfortable carry-on option. With your school’s logo prominently displayed, they help spread your alma mater’s name far and wide. It's not just about carrying belongings—they embody memories, values, and a piece of the past, making each journey a celebration of school pride.
The University of Michigan, for instance, offers a notable drawstring bag in their university colors, featuring a vertical zip for extra space to store smaller accessories like wallets, keys, and smartphones. It's a convenient and stylish choice, ensuring students can always rely on your accessory.
Michigan Wolverines 871 Tilt Backsack Backpacks and Bags available at Barnes & Nobles and University of Michigan’s online store- Source
Gumtoo Customer: Custom Drawstring Bag for Aramco- Source
4. Turn your Emblem into a Pocket-Sized Pride using Custom Coin
Medallion coins are a timeless and elegant piece of merchandise for schools to offer their alumni. Engraved with the school's emblem and significant dates, these coins serve as cherished mementos of the time spent on campus. More than just a souvenir, they symbolize the shared experiences and achievements that connect alumni to their alma mater.
For example, King’s College London offers a medallion coin in their online retail store, as part of their merchandise. It's a proud keepsake that alumni can display and pass down to future generations, preserving the legacy and pride of their alma mater.
King’s College in Cambridge offers an exclusive coin- Source
This enduring token not only strengthens the alumni's bond with your institution but also serves as a subtle yet powerful tool to inspire continued support and involvement in your school's future endeavors.
Gumtoo Customer: Custom Medallion coin for Saviynt- Source
5. Passing the legacy to their kids- Custom Kid Sized Hoodies
Imagine the joy at your alumni gathering when alumni find children's-sized hoodies in their hampers. These aren't just cozy sweatshirts—they're a symbol of school pride and a bridge to the next generation. As alumni pass these hoodies on to their kids, they're not only keeping warm but also fostering a connection to the school. It's a meaningful way to inspire future generations to be a part of the school community, creating a lasting legacy of school pride that they would want to be a part of growing up.
A perfect example of this would be Oxford University. They offer a delightful range of children-sized apparel which is really encouraging for the alumni to buy and share their connection for their children. Among their collection, the cozy hoodies stand out, featuring the iconic Oxford crest.
Kid-sized Gray Hoodie from Oxford University - Source
6. An alumni merch that sticks on every household- Custom Magnets
If you reside in and around Asia, it’s common knowledge of family members to stick any sort of travel or school souvenirs to stick on refrigerators of every household. Not because it’s a decorative accessory, but it holds true to the memories we associate them with.
Help your former students do the same with decking their fridges out with custom magnets featuring your school’s emblem or an image of a popular campus spot!
Just like the King’s College, let your alumni proudly display their alma mater anywhere they choose featuring notable heritage spots around your campus. Custom fridge magnets offer a versatile way for alumni to showcase their school spirit, whether it's on their refrigerator, car, office, or personal locker.
A fridge magnet featuring King’s College heritage buildings- Source
These little eye-catchers aren’t just for holding up photos—they’re constant reminders of the school community and a fun way to keep alumni engaged. Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, these magnets will be at the center of family gatherings, adding a touch of school spirit.
Gumtoo Customer: Custom Fridge Magnets for Telegram - Source
If not fridge magnets, another option is to turn a regular bookmark into a magnet. This way, it’s not just any bookmark that could become flimsy over the years. A magnetized bookmark tends to last longer and remains a part of their desk accessories.
Gumtoo Customer: Custom Book Magnets for Druk Asia - Source
Conclusion
By investing in meaningful, high-quality items, your school can not only strengthen your image but also create a tradition for your alumni. From networking events or a special gathering, these treasured items can be powerful tools, fostering a sense of belonging and commitment.
So let’s celebrate and uphold the values and traditions of your schools through thoughtful swag that resonates with your alumni and future generations alike.
Gumtoo Customer: North London Collegiate School - Source
North London Collegiate School worked with us to make stunning custom school swag of their own, that perfectly captured their school’s vibrant spirit. Want to get started with yours?
Connect with us today for customized swag that let us help you create memorable alumni events and reunions that truly celebrate your school’s legacy. Our team is excited to help you pick out the perfect items and craft a strategy that’ll get your alumni contributing!
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