Shelbie Harris
Staff Writer
In addition to supporting student scholarships and sponsoring various awards and other forms of recognition, those who choose to remain an Idaho State University Bengal for life by joining the Alumni Association are also entitled to additional benefits like continued access and discounts across campus.
Although the completion of 24 credits is the sole requirement necessary to join the Alumni Association, perhaps individuals should embark on this rite of passage only after the tassel has been flipped.
“For all of our current year graduates we offer them membership in the Alumni Association at no cost,” said K.C. Felt, executive director of alumni relations. “The standard fee is an annual fee of $30 and there are different levels members can participate in.”
Membership levels include student (free), annual ($30), couple ($45), lifetime ($300), couple lifetime ($400), and legacy.
Furthermore, legacy memberships are considered lifetime, family memberships that for the cost of $1000 can be passed down to immediate family members generation after generation.
As well as receiving a membership card, ISU alumni window decal and license plate frame, members are instantly eligible for campus discounts and services, national benefits, and additional financial services.
“Members get access to the Early Learning Center, limited access for online or in-person use of the [Eli M. Oboler] Library, a discount at the ISU Bookstore, a discount at the Bengal Theater, a 10 percent reduction in rentals from the Outdoor [Adventure] Center, and discounted usage fees of the craft shop,” Felt said. “There is also access to career services, and alumni will automatically get information regarding university events.”
Additionally, members can purchase discounted memberships to Campus Recreation and financial services, including the ability to apply for an ISU Credit Card through ISU Credit Union and a discounted rate for Liberty Mutual Insurance.
“The credit card we are offering through the ISU Alumni Association is a way for ISU Alumnus to continue to show pride in their attendance at Idaho State University,” said Robert Taylor, President and CEO of ISU Credit Union. “Every time a card holder uses their card it proudly shows the ISU colors and logo.”
For graduates who pursue interests outside of Pocatello, there are some national benefits available including online shopping discounts, discounted travel programs and discounted Internet and security systems.
“We’re always looking for other options,” Felt said. “We’re always looking for things that will be of benefit to our alums regardless of where they live. We’ve got a couple of things we are looking at right now such as pet insurance, for example.”
Becoming a member of the Alumni Association works both in the favor of members as well as in favor of the university in the sense that members receive benefit provisions in exchange for the University being able to tout the accomplishments of graduates and other members.
“The friendships and relationships that are made in college ultimately become lifelong and they all center around one thing and it’s where you went to school,” Felt said. “Lifetime engagement. That is the whole ticket.”
