At California State University San Marcos (CSUSM), we believe in the transformative power of education and the vital role that scholarships play in making this opportunity accessible to all. To elevate our One CSUSM campaign—a dedicated initiative to raise funds for scholarships—we sought to engage our dynamic alumni network, specifically those who have established a strong presence as influencers on social media. By fostering authentic connections with these alumni, we aim to amplify our mission and reach new supporters who share our commitment to empowering future generations.
ach influencer received a custom-designed postcard from CSUSM, expressing our appreciation for their connection to the university and their potential to inspire others. Alongside the postcard, we curated a PR box filled with CSUSM-themed swag—ranging from pom poms to personalized hats—that would not only evoke school spirit but also serve as a conversation starter among their followers.

We encouraged our alumni influencers to share their excitement about CSUSM and One CSUSM with their audiences. By posting photos and messages about their custom swag and their journey at CSUSM, they helped generate buzz and increase awareness for our scholarship fundraising efforts. Their authentic endorsements can resonate deeply with their followers, encouraging a new generation of supporters to engage with and contribute to our cause.

In our inaugural year, we started small, reaching out to just four influential alumni. This initial approach allowed us to learn and adapt, gathering valuable insights into how best to engage our community.

Having learned so much in our first year, we are excited to expand this initiative in the coming years. Our goal is to reach out to more alumni influencers, building a robust network of advocates who can help us further amplify our message. We aim to refine our strategy based on feedback and insights gained, ensuring that each year we create an even more impactful experience for our influencers and our community.

The influencer initiative was a collaboration of The Office of Annual Giving Programs and our Stewardship office.