3 Tips for Naming A Corporate Alumni Program

So, you’ve decided to create a corporate alumni program. You’ve done your due diligence and have crossed off all the major planning tasks on your checklist. Except for one… what are you going to call it?

This may seem like a simple task, but many companies struggle to come up with a name that describes the benefit or full range of the program. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with a straightforward moniker like “COMPANY Alumni Network,” the naming process is an opportunity to elevate your program and connect it to your brand’s mission and values. Here are a few tips to follow if you’d like to think outside the box a bit.

1. Consider the Full Breadth & Depth of the Corporate Alumni Program

Will your corporate alumni program include employees? Do you anticipate relationships being full rounded and lasting a lifetime? Are you thinking of the entire employee lifecycle? In our 2022 research we found that more than 40% of organizations are including alumni programs in employee onboarding and in candidate recruiting. Expanding the name to be more inclusive is an opportunity.

Example: SPAN: Seyfarth People & Alumni Network by Seyfarth Shaw LLP, Oliver Wyman Connect

 2. Use Wordplay

From alliteration and rhyming to puns and metaphors, there are several ways to add some personality to your corporate alumni program name. You can also simply use descriptive language that represents the future, momentum, growth, connections, opportunity, etc.

Examples: Always Akin, BeyondBain, HP Continuum, Xooglers (ex-Google employees)

3. Look Around for Inspiration

Does your company have a unique logo or nickname? Is there a recognizable architectural feature at your corporate headquarters? How about a well-known motto or inside joke? You can pull from this sort of insider knowledge to craft a truly distinctive network name that employees and alumni will instantly recognize.

Example: 6453 Alumni (Nike’s alumni group founded by former employees)

Other Ideas

• Carry On a Legacy – Some companies continue to honor their original founders or celebrate the outstanding team members who made a lasting impact over the years. If this applies to your organization, think about naming your corporate alumni network after a notable or famous employee as a nod of appreciation. This will also serve as a reminder to everyone that you value and appreciate your corporate alumni. (Keep in mind, you may need to seek permission from the person or their estate.)
• Go with the standard choice but pair it with a compelling tag line. Example: Alumni: Colleagues for life (Deloitte) or Starbucks Alumni Community: Once a Partner, Always a Partner
• Host a contest naming among current employees and staff
• Hire a third-party to conduct product-naming research on your behalf

Whatever you decide to call it, make it stand out, put it every where, and be proud to be a part of it!