Q14: Recommended methods or changes to AOG that would provide better communications to all graduates?

The survey included an area where respondents could provide additional methods or changes to AOG that would provide better communications.  Of the 642 entries, the following general categories were determined (some comments fit more than one category):
 

[001]  1. Unite with WP-ORG, upgrading to WP-ORG technology.

[002]  If you put the assembly on the net, I would pay for it. Register - throw it on CD

[003]  The Web site is a welcome feature. I would expand use of e-mail.

[004]  Please stop sending me a letter every month asking for more donations. I give an annual gift so save your money!!!!!

[005]  More updates, via FAX, email, or regular mail.

[006]  Keep an updated web sight with accurate information. Keep up with the Assembly.

[007]  1. Use e-mail more. 2. Make agenda and minutes of AOG meetings available. 3. Do a more effective job of explaining why grads are having to pick up more of USMA expenses.

[008]  I feel like I am well-informed and information is easily-available through several mediums...AOG is doing fine, if not superb, in my opinion.

[009]  Announcment of activitities in the West Point Area For example - invitations to gradutaes to go to Mess hall for footbal rallys etc. I Live in the West Point Area.

[010]  email addresses in the assembly Better e-network for job seeking

[011]  Communicate via E-mail Non-militaryCareer/Hiring/Emp. network Double amount/sizes of WP Societies

[012]  Put assembly on-line

[013]  Make the Assembly available by subscription on-line; ditto with the Register of Graduates.

[014]  There is a lack of attention to detail in AOG. Am tired of having people call asking my wife (also a grad) why she doesn't get the Assembly? We always say because we already have on member getting it. Come on guys, there are a number of married couples that are both graduates. Place another field in your database and get this fixed.

[015]  I am reluctant to communicate in any way with AOG, since they never respond other than soliciting.

[016]  Less mail, email as primary.

[017]  Freed does more than we have a right to expect.

[018]  I have had some problems with AOG people not returning phone calls when I have left voice nail messages. Last renewal of Assembly was a real bummer, Almost wrote the Supe!!

[019]  Need to continue to improve email and internet provided commo. Great medium and doesn't waste paper.

[020]  The problem with AOG communications is one of late dissemination of info.

[021]  Wider use of e-mail. This survey is a good example.

[022]  I pay little or no attention to AOG. I am not in favor of the "begging bowl" approach and I have another Alma Mater which handles its problems far better to my mind--VMI.

[023]  I believe that you are developing some good systems, keep developing, and I will support.

[024]  Register of grads on CD - don't think of all the reasons to say no, join the electronic age!

[025]  Reduce being so overbearing on fund collections

[026]  As indicated above, Class of 76 has done poorly in supporting the AOG and I feel it is due to the lack of information provided in the Assembly.

[027]  Easier access via email/web pages. An easy-to-find and indentify, published list of points of contact so I know who to send my requests/questions/etc. to.

[028]  I am not a big supporeter of WP athletic recruiting. I have personally observed the unfair and preferential traetment extended to varsity athletes. I was a victim of this preferential treatment. Promote the recruitment of truly qualified young people, not athletically qualified people.

[029]  More thorough "networking" functions More rotust/better utilized career support (read job finding) functions

[030]  I am happy; but since a lot of guys are not right now, the notion of a forum in several media -- Assembly, homepage/email, written/snail mail, etc., probably makes sense.

[031]  I understand that the agenda of this year's "Minority Alumni Conference" will address the female experience at West Point. I strongly urge the chairman to adopt a position that, at each conference, this forum will allow the raising of concerns of each minority group vice a focus on one or two each year. By limiting the agenda we've extended the time required to focus on smaller, but not insignificant, populations. West Point......is.......the American Dream. Amid the current debate and controversy over the full definition and application of affermative action policies, the AOG cannot allow the day to arrive where the long gray line requires federal legislation to ensure the West Point experience is appropriately extended to all segments of the population, or that holistic input from her minority alumni is not sought after each and every time a "Minority Alumni" event is conducted. My definition of 'the right thing to do' is: during EACH Minority Alumni Conference conduct breakout sessions that solicit input on AOG selected topics from the following interest groups a. Black b. Hispanic c. Women d. Asian/Pacific Islander e. American Indian/Alaskan Native Allow each group to propose topics in a controlled manner and we'll hit a home run.

[032]  more use of e-mail.

[033]  WP-ORG is not user friendly. Remembering special passwords and commands keeps me out of it.

[034]  SEND OUT A WEEKLY UPDATE ON HOW THINGS ARE GOING AT wEST pOINT AND HOW WE CAN HELP....SIMILAR TO TROAA

[035]  AOG should be more representative of the Association and membership than being a fund raising organization for the Superintendent and Academy -- which is the impression you leave. Specifically, the institution itself is under serious review by Congress and our citizens, and I feel AOG should be concentrating on this threat more than being concerned with suplementing specialty funds. Specifically, ROTC is being considered equal to being a graduate of the Academy. If true, serious consequencies will ultimately impact the Academies. Secondly, the politics and situation over integration of women into the Academies and combat-ranks of the services do not seem to be acceptable to other than fringe elements -- which are on a course that threatens the basic fabric of the Services and associated institutions. Thirdly, the Athletic Association is too much a driver of political and academic considerations, and such focus and related adverse publicity also threatens the Institution in my judgement. The AOG should be taking stands and attempting to temper such threats, rather than being so focused on other important, perhaps, but less serious than should be a well thought-out and long-term strategic direction.

[036]  E-mail List servers. Put the word out in a very efficient manner. Publish speeches or interactive events using real audio or netshow live.

[037]  Better feedback! Having Bill Taylor on wp-org is a good thing, but it ought to be part of AOG's SOP.

[038]  I think e-mail and the web site has been the best thing for all communications. I have heard from classmates that I have not heard from in years. I actually know what many of the events are. To me the internet has brought me closer to AOG and West Point.

[039]  More e-mail automated updates via e-mail to members

[040]  E-mail/internet is now the daily means of communication and could be used for all commo, probably including Register of Graduates.. Postal service mail is much less likely to be read - often looks like "junk" mail.:

[041]  Whatever

[042]  Listen.

[043]  communications are fine,it is the mission and goals that need changing. AOG should not be a instrument of the administration.AOG should reflect the opinions of the graduates.

[044]  Improve the register of graduates to include both homes of record (usually parents' address) and current address. New graduates frequently move around a lot and current addresses change. Parent's addresses usually don't change and are a good back-up. Made the register of graduates and automatic service.

[045]  better utilization of west-point.org's class list servers. most of the aog info I receive is 2nd/3rd hand thru west-point.org

[046]  West Point not AOG should provide class representatives with calling cards to allow them to stay in touch with classmates. The representative would use the card to get updates on what others are doing. This is a great way of maintaining loyalty and committment to West Point. As my company's scribe and fund raising rep, I spend a lot of my own money keeping people in touch. There are people I'd spend more effort on if I weren't burning my own nickle. I am also a graduate of the Harvard Business School, and they use this very method. It may seem silly to give someone a license to call for free, but if we want to raise money for our Alma Mater, people need to stay in touch and committed to the institution - A small price to pay for the millions we need to raise. e-mail forwarding - a permanent e-mail address that would not store mail, but that could act as a router for a graduates changing e-mail addresses: ex. I have an AOG address of dkirby@usma1989.net I give the AOG my e-mail address of (XXXXX) All of my mail from others is sent to the usma1989.net address and is forwarded to my aol address. When I change internet providers (as we so often do), I update AOG that my new address is (XXXXX) People still send my e-mail to the usma1989.net address, oblivious that I've changed address. The big benefit for AOG is that graduates continually update the AOG to their new address and internet address. AOG only acts as a router for mail, so there is no storage, making the cost minimal. AOG then has the most up to date mailing list possible, since people want their e-mail to follow them. Fund raisers etc become a lot easier. Again, this is something that I have seen Harvard use very successfully.

[047]  Increased use of Internet using west-point.org Class connections.

[048]  More E-Mail interaction Class input via E-Mail or Homepage

[049]  I do not know how or what the format would be, but I need an assessment of what the impact has been and is percieved to be of the constant cost/benefit analyses of the traditions of West Point. My fear is that with the combination of the cost cuts, the usual 'the Corps has' concerns, and Reserve commissioning, when does USMA become just another ROTC institution and not able to justify the price per graduate?

[050]  Increased use of Email to distribute information. More open communication about AOG activities, esp meetings of the BOT and committees.

[051]  Quicker communication regarding major forthcoming articles on USMA, such as NY Times article on "beast barracks." Perhaps Email alert. Quicker response by Supe/Com regarding controversial news, such as the "blood pinning." Again, Email would work.

[052]  1.Answer questions from graduates. Do not give evasive answers. 2.Cover controversial questions in Assembly. 3.Listen to graduates and not only to superiors.

[053]  I would like to see more input to Assembly from graduates and the results of periodic surveys like this.

[054]  Undecided.

[055]  Put Assembly on CD or on Internet. Put Registry and Assembly on CD is a big plus.

[056]  stop all the fund raising mail

[057]  Set up a mailing list that would either inform me of significant events or at least notify me when those events had been posted to the web so I would know to look. I'm a maneuver Brigade S3 and don't have a lot of time to browse.

[058]  Keep increasing use of electronic means Put Assembly and Register of Graduates on line Allow Register updates via Web or e-mail

[059]  More effective use of email to communicate with and solicit feedback from graduates.

[060]  Continue to improve our website.

[061]  Need more formal updates on USMA sent via e-mail monthly. Have really enjoyed Sup's e-mail updates.

[062]  My only problem with AOG in the past has been them keeping my correct address as I moved around. With email addresses, this should become less of a problem, since it will move with me.

[063]  Sponsored gatherings (tailgates, receptions, etc) at local and regional USMA sports events

[064]  Move ROG, Assembly to Internet. Emphasize electronic links to AOG Board activities, agendas, minutes, reports. Better financial reports about where money is spent. Explain the $ 50,000 ring display boxes.

[065]  No problem with communications with AOG through Assembly. However the service from AOG is another matter. They appear to be a voice for Academy policy and do not seem to ask for or utilize opinions of graduates.

[066]  I believe that by building a dtat base and supplying Graduates via e-mail with information about the changes in West Point would build stronger support for the organization. I aalso believe that the Graduates could provide valualbe input to the staff on how well the School is doing in its mission to provide leaders for the nation.

[067]  Our class needs to do something about our entries into the Assembly. We've gone about 3 issues with NO CLASS NEWS. I am as guilty as the next guy for writing the scribe, BUT I am not the scribe, either. I think the AOG can help us POLICE the class scribes.

[068]  Is it possible to set up an electronic Assembly magazine? (pay same subscription rate to enter the Assembly pages?)

[069]  More use of personal e-mail. This method is great.

[070]  Include some pictures in email (by class).

[071]  I really think the Web access and e-mail is a great idea!

[072]  More use of Internet

[073]  Make agendas and minutes of AOG meetings public prior to (agendas) and after meetings so grads who cannot attend know in detail what occurs.

[074]  1. Extended use of the internet. 2. Encompass society info into the internet. Currently, I have only found one society web link.

[075]  Be more helpful in matching resume's to job opportunities.

[076]  Send out some info products that don't ask for money.

[077]  The automatic notification system through e-mail is a good tool. To few grads are effectively networking business referrals and leads. We must learn from the Ivy schools. Most of the problem is that grads are too stubborn to either offer assistance to another grad or accept assistance from one. The two books,"How to win friends and influence people" and "The 7 habits of highly successful people" should be mandatory reading requirements for the corps. I believe the books would help communication immensely from a networking perspective.

[078]  1. My undestanding was that I am lifetime member of the AOG. However, when I tried to purchase tickets in my class section for the Army Navy Game, AAA indicated that they were not carrying me as a member. So now I'm not sure what my status is.

[079]  Have scribes write in every issue of Assembly, or pass on their duties to somebody else. I don't write to my scribe a great deal. Did twice in twenty years, but neither of my messages or photos were included in the issue. Actually met one of the suspenses for the next issue, but that issue had nothing from my class included - so I know it wasn't because there wasn't anything to write about. The thing is, I didn't stand up in front of my classmates and run for class office and say I'd fulfill the duties associated with that position the way our scribe did. BLUF? AOG should require somehow that scribes write something every article, even if they have limited or no input from their classmates. At least the article could say something about upcoming events or essentially "no input. . .hey, how about writing."

[080]  I believe that I can get what the AOG makes available to me through the US Mail.

[081]  More widespread use of e-mail and other electronic means of communication

[082]  I am retired and on faculty at The Ohio State University. The OSU Alumni Association seems to me to be far superior to the AOG. I never thought about it till receiving this questionnaire. Both my children graduated from OSU and they amount of informative information received from the OSU-AA by them is amazing. If you asked me what the AOG does for me I'd say not much. I find the Assembly tight. Besides my class column and the Com's column because he is a classmate, I don't read much else. It just is not interesting. Then the letters asking for money. To me sitting outside the old gray walls, the AOG is in the dark ages.

[083]  Question #5. You seem to forget Army Reserves and National Guard are also valid status for Grads. Also Federal and perhaps state Civil Service. There are more that the choices of Active Duty, Retired or civilian. You seem to forget there is a bigger Army Team. I suggested to our local society that they include Reserve Guard and Civil Service when counting Grads making contributions to the nation, not just active duty.

[084]  I am generally happy. Although I have Internet access, I don't check specific sites unless I meed them: don't assume that putting something up on the web means it has been received.

[085]  Publish the Register of Graduates on the web page, and include E-Mail Addresses

[086]  Increase visibility through participation in more local events.

[087]  Expanded web page and band width. Provide on-line catalog of WP items. Sell tickets on-line

[088]  I don't have any specific recommendations but think that some changes could be made. This survey is a good start.

[089]  More timely information via the internet. Greater range of information such as AOG meeting minutes.

[090]  Happy, but do nt care for automated answering system. For example, if the person I am calling is away; I can not learn when he will return. An hour? Two weeks?

[091]  With the expansion of the Internet, keep adding features to the Web pages.

[092]  E-mail

[093]  only been on west-point.org 1-2 mos. increase this mode of commo, pls

[094]  Expanded, current Internet

[095]  advertise the AOG home page in the mailings and magazenes

[096]  more email service/updates/accessibility

[097]  More of existing communications

[098]  More effective use of Email and WP-Org

[099]  While I am happy that the AOG has an electronic presence I believe that many people do not visit there for two primary reasons: 1) Availability of time, and 2) No electronic capability. I would like to see the AOG's electronic data available to those of us who do not visit your web site via some other means - probably mail.

[100]  Delivery of the assembly seems spotty. In the last 8 years, I have not gotten several issues.

[101]  Now that I know its here, I prefer the E-Mail

[102]  1. Lets do more for the graduates, our emphasis appears to be only for the cadets. 2. Fire the AAA people, they are not doing a good enough job, I have already written the previous Supe about how screwed for Army Nortre Dame tickets --after 25 years-- I was compared to how my daughter's BC-Ohio (Kickoff classic) tickets after 3 years. 3. Don't come to me with your hand out after being so insulting.

[103]  Give ALL of the Assembly class reps an email address so we can send stuff online. Right now, only a few of them have their own personal email addresses.

[104]  WP-Org is a great tool!

[105]  Do the mailing/email addresses of inERclass individuals really have to be "shielded?" Are we to that level of privacy/paranoia within the AOG? While the extra effort of going through a blind mail/email box may be trivial, I was taken aback that this would be necessary within such a group as ours, (especially since the addresses are already published in the Register.) It's a (very) small thing. But it sends a chilling message.

[106]  Shift toward fund raising illustrates a change in direction for which more communication would have been useful. I get the idea that AOG wants to raise funds to support the Academy. What happened to support for graduates?

[107]  A "push" job server that would push job openings to me in my areas of interest.

[108]  Add email IDs to the Annual Register

[109]  Assembly much too frequent. 3-4/yr Max!

[110]  1. geographic eMail map of graduates 2. directory of volunteers and committees in all WP Societies 3. encourage formation of "natural" groups based on common personal interests (reduce centralized AOG management)

[111]  I would like to see an AOG list server.

[112]  Broadcast email messages with embedded adresses to applicable bulletin boards.

[113]  newsletter or something other than E-mail that addresses the currect problems

[114]  Press releases, news stories, etc., in local papers

[115]  put the assembly and Register of Graduates on-line--save $$$, postage & paper

[116]  Separate mailings for AOG meetings

[117]  Perhaps sponsor & conduct computer workshops for older grads resistant to hi-tech change & encourage them to join the e-mail crowd!

[118]  1. Need to use email more. I like the idea of telling us what type of info is/might be available and allowing us to select what we'd like to receive. 2. Need to post email addresses of officers of AOG and BOT so we can send our ideas to them easily. 3. AOG needs to post minutes and agendas of all meetings (both committees and boards) so the members can provide input and know what's going on in their association.

[119]  Not interested in frequent E-mail communication. Occasional, short,(monthly or less) would be OK.

[120]  I had subscribed to the e-mail updates, but discovered a flood of mail that did not apply to us from local West Point chapters. I had hoped to receive updates on West Point information, not what the Philly people were doing! I live in New Jersey and work in central NJ, the Philly happenings do not concern me. I then discovered that I could not subscribe to AOG without receiving the local updates also. I unsubscribed.

[121]  See above, since I am no longer working as a Professor or consultant.

[122]  1. Quit hiding the facts about what's happening at USMA.

[123]  Automatically send AOG magazines and West Point info via email to all on the listserve. Do not make us search for it under some other URL. Other than that input, great job. Better than most other schools/academies.

[124]  OK since Mr Hammack took over

[125]  Get someone on the staff who can update graduate listings for the register. I have called AOG several times since April--everytime I call I am told that the position is not filled and that no one can take my information. "Try mailing it in, maybe it will be updated" is an unsatisfactory answer to say the least, yet it is one I routinely get. As soon as I drop my yearly subscription to the register (which will be soon given this level of performance), I will get a letter from AOG encouraging me to be "loyal" to USMA by continuing as a loyal subscriber. Sorry--I will not subsidize substandard performance.

[126]  better & more infor on AOG web site

[127]  We need a more real time way for AOG to make information about classmate addresses and other data found in the Register available. Register data is collected in May, published in November, and in many cases, already outdated because of the summer assignment cycle. There ought to be a way to meet the same privacy considerations that apply to the Register within the AOG web site. Since my class (79), at least, is trying to assist AOG by keeping track of addresses, etc., as well, there ought to be a way for us to exchange data with AOG. Right now, I send our data to AOG, but I don't have a regular source of data from AOG.

[128]  Fully support email messaging (work closely with the class list servers)

[129]  Separate West Point Fund Solicitqations so that communications from AOG will not be mostly junk mail -- advertisements for lamps, cruises, etc. The AOG return mail now usually indicates junk mail or solicitations. This should not be the primary function of AOG.

[130]  Would like to see expanded information available on web page. Also appreciate e-mail about major events, critical issues, etc.

[131]  email update of goings-on in the Corps and at USMA in general

[132]  More Information about Second Careers

[133]  Become a PAC. Get national media coverage: write press releases, take positions on national issues that "further the ideals and promote the welfare of the United States Military Academy", as determined by survey of members.

[134]  Send out periodic e-mail when special events occur.

[135]  Increased use of e-mail

[136]  More opportunities for two-way communication would be nice, in order to provide feedback.

[137]  Some recognition in the class articles or functions at USMA that those of us who have become civilians have information to contribute and share, just as muich as those on actived duty. If you go back to USMA for a function and are no longer in the military, you have no more access to things then the general public does. Being an alumnus does not seem to count for much if you are a civilian, and not in the military, even if you served honorably for the time you were in the service. Civilian grads cannot use the Officer Club for dinners (unless you are retired military), get souvenirs at the Cadet Gift Store, etc. The only thing available to civilian grads is the AOG itself. This is a weird setup for alumni who are civilians now; we are sort of second class alumni in the minds of the military establishment at the Academy.

[138]  Seems like First Call is just a summary of old news that I have read in AAA newsletter or in some other USMA publication.

[139]  I have called AOG once or twice in the past year or two. When I called for career service information, it was several days before my call was returned. Then the information given was totally useless. It reminded me of calling the IRS or the Infantry Branch.

[140]  contact from AOG on how I can help USMA. Add a section to Assembly that focuses on one graduate each issue. It could be random and just report on what the graduate is up to. Should not be just high profile grads.

[141]  E-mail updates

[142]  Monthly NEWSletter (print/internet/fax media)

[143]  More tiemly upkeep of websites, especially AAA. Gets dated quickly and not kept current.

[144]  I wonder if one can access the addresses of classmates on line? If so, then disreguard this recommendation.

[145]  I recommend a method used for this survey. If you, as an organization ask for help from me for the school directly, I'll support you 100%. However, I am not interested in receiving information on bricks for my class and any other tool used to generate funds for something I feel is inappropiate.

[146]  Continue to push the Internet and E-Mail as more and more graduates are coming on line and/or have access to E-Mail through work.

[147]  send out regular email messages to all grads

[148]  New updates on class e-mail listings. Only about two hundred of my former classmates are listed right now. I'm SURE there are more of them online by now. Also, more effort should be made to contact former cadets.

[149]  Once a year mail out (postal) an e-mail list to all classes, of all known graduates in that year who have an e-mail address.

[150]  More reliance on internet and ability to easily locate classmates using same.

[151]  Eliminate duplicate mail to the same address. I'm married to a classmate, and we get the same letters in the mail every time a mailing goes out. Also, since only one of us subscribes to the Assembly, we get letters "inviting" the other to subscribe.

[152]  Make better, more use of the internet.

[153]  increase the use of the internet

[154]  AOG should sponsor web site with basic Class homepages- for all classes

[155]  Enhanced use of Internet (Email, Web, etc.) methods; ability to update information directly from the Web.

[156]  I like the addition of e-mail communications and homepage.

[157]  Can we make an electronic version of the Assembly available for subscription? Thank you.

[158]  More internet communication. Create mechanism (through all communication forms) for graduates to know of internet and enter/update their internet addresses. Our local society has been plagued with communicating updates and event notices until we started using the internet more extensively.

[159]  I've said this before. Not enough data on controversial subjects. The civilian faculty. Who instituted this, any what is the rationale? How are they working out? Would you really tell us if they weren't? Every Supe's letter is the same. West Point is better than ever--even during the problems and scandals of the 60's. More pages need to be devoted to many of our worries about lowered standards and the trend towardbecoming a super ROTC institution. Reassure us, if you can. I don't think we're hearing it all.

[160]  Internet is a great way to get the word out at minimal cost

[161]  Reduce cost of mailings by asking each grad if they will accept electronic rather than paper mail. You must maintain paper for those that have no computer access, but you can eliminate paper mail to those willing to accept e-mail only. You MUST "tickle" us by sending e-mail with a couple of sentences describing the reason for the e-mail. In the e-mail, include a URL where we can go for more info. Do NOT count on us to "just browse your homepage" on a regular basis.

[162]  I need to think about this. We do need better communications - perhaps the e-mail system is the answer. It would appear to be but I have only just begun using it.

[163]  I would like to see greater reliance on internet (email & www) and a reduction the the paper sent to me.

[164]  Great job.

[165]  a. Make web site more informative, more quickly, e.g., Oct mtg of BOT of AOG minutes not on web as of late Dec. Make these minutes more explicit. b. Mute - greatly mute - incessant call for grads to contribute money. USMA is federally supported on a lavish scale. USMA could well practice some frugality.

[166]  We are all flooded with information throughout the year and the great challenge remains to sift through and find that which is most important. At our last Society meeting, our President presented us with a one-page summary of events for 1997 which reflected the highlights, accomplishments, and even disappoinments of the past year. This was a highly effective communications tool which concisely expressed why the Society exists. Since the holidays are a time of reflection for most people and one during which they seek to strengthen their ties to past associations, I believe it would be worthwhile for AOG to send each graduate a holiday greeting with a similar one-page summary of the key changes and events affecting the Academy and our brethren. Keep it short with reference to the source material if someone needs more detail. I truly believe graduates would read this one page more than any other source of information received from the AOG and would come to look forward to it arriving each winter.

[167]  I am really glad to see the internet communications expanding. Please continue.

[168]  Provide e-mail on major activities or news.

[169]  Continue to increase the use of the net!

[170]  1. Rely primarily on E-mail; 2. Provide the back-up information through the Class organization; 3. Go Public! Use the media more to get your message out. Stop preaching to the choir, et al.

[171]  I think using the Internet and Internet e-mail is the best means I have encountered yet. Keep it up.

[172]  1. Need a definite list of who to contact for what information. For example, where to call to get classmate information, what number for transcripts, how to donate, what are the different donation programs, etc.

[173]  This is excellent - I feel that i am well informed on cadet activities and the activities of AOG.

[174]  My wife is a Georgetown graduate and her class has a bulletin board where you can post a message w/ your email account. Anyone parusing this board can click and talk. I like our database of Email accounts and hope that service continues.

[175]  Support information flow through class officers

[176]  Out in the Societies, we receive a great deal of mail from the AOG, which is very valuable. The need for a Society newsletter has been somewhat subverted by this efficiency (including First Call mailed to members). The day to day news of West Point not available in the Assembly used to be mailed in the form of newspaper clippings, white papers, etc. These formed a framework of news unavailable to members by other means, and gave good substance to the periodic newsletter beyond local society meetings, schedules, etc. Without that source of fresh news, the newsletter in our society has fallen into disuse. It was a powerful integrating dimension which we miss, and which has been reflected in reduced membership, attendance at events, and general interest in the society among graduates. There may certainly be other factors playing here, but the newsletter was a valuable tool for supporting our program. Please consider returning to the former practice of providing more West Point news for inclusion in society newsletters.

[177]  The AOG is seeking funds for a variety of projects and purposes. These projects have not been prioritized and need to be, particularly for larger donors.

[178]  Increased use of email mailing lists (majordomo, listserv, etc.) Private New Group server (not a public one, too much spam on USENET for it to be useful anymore.)

[179]  1. Electronic version of Assembly magazine. 2. Update web site on monthly basis with interesting articles regarding WP, issues facing the academy, sports, etc. Give grads a reason to sign on monthly to WP home page!! 3. Some grads established an unofficial WP football web page newsletter. Offer to manage access to these and similar pages so all grads can participate.

[180]  Have not given this issue any thought.

[181]  Ensure all grads know about the AOG home page to include the E-mail address page

[182]  Your "None" button does not work.

[183]  increase the ways to utilize the e-mail and in ternet

[184]  The athletic department of USMA and AOG provide info on the collegiate athletics, but the club squad athletes have no "air" time on any of the web sites or publications. This is a large contingent the corps and they deserve the recognition and graduates will contribute to follow their teams

[185]  Electronic Assembly

[186]  e-mail 1 month ago to aog (trotter) requesting info on burial in USMA Cemetery for graduates unanswered as yet (Dec 24 th)

[187]  EMAIL

[188]  It would help to have more people on the staff devoted to e-mail and electronic information exchange.

[189]  Use e-mail

[190]  AOG now has so many new ways to get out information that it is a little confusing - especially to those new to the E-mail and WWW explosion. I haven't noticed in the ASSEMBLY if we have a page or column that says (indexes) what information is where.

[191]  Better use of E-Mail. Several improvements have occured recently

[192]  No Travel Brochures

[193]  More directed email anouncements to my personal address, rather than through checking a web site would be welcome.

[194]  Use the method West-Point.org uses.

[195]  Assembly- Recommend that a survey be made to determine enhanced format and content desired by graduates. For 50 years I have read the class page primarily, yet I read TROA magazine to stay current on DOD matters.

[196]  Far more sophisticated, timely, online, web page publications paralleling the Assembly

[197]  More On Line - Is Better

[198]  Provide listing in Assembly of registered web sites & addresses

[199]  Place AOG Bulletins On-Line Place Updated Assembly On-Line .... Accessible to those who pay annual fees

[200]  Expand your internet communications. I just found it and think it is great. Do a search of the internet and locate other grads.

[201]  Communications between me and AOG are one way. I read what is printed. Otherwise, there is no communication. I dont't write, call, or e-mail to AOG.

[202]  e-mail is the best. Really easy, fast.

[203]  Encouraged by your use of the Internet...please continue.

[204]  Eliminate all paper based communication and go completely electronic to reduce expenses and increase participation

[205]  Comments on important issues or events e-mailed to graduates or made available on the AOG homepage with an e-mail announcement about it.

[206]  Although mail has worked well, I am sure that we all must prepare ouselves for greater use of web sites and e-mail. Even now as I write this -- a sort of e-mail -- I find that I enjoy doing it, perhaps inducing me to do a better job of corresponding with AOG in the future.

[207]  Provide a means for civilian alumni networking on line.

[208]  Reduce the cost of subscription to the Assembly.

[209]  Continue to forge ahead with improvements on the web site and with email to keep grads informed.

[210]  Greater email correspondence

[211]  Monthly executive summary of activities sent ot subscribers via e-mail since that's quicker and more convenient than browsing the aog website. The exec summary would point to in-depth articles and updates on the website.

[212]  Stop insisting on family Ok for all memorial articles. There are cases in which family discord results in denying publication of ANY obit. I can cite three such cases with dead classmates and am sure there are many others. Put some authority in the hands of class presidents or class secretaries.

[213]  Change the image of the AOG from a "bureaucratic self-serving" organization with an unclear charter, to an association of and for the Graduates that "promotes the welfare" of the Graduate Body. This survey is an excellent first step towards establishing better communication through understanding.

[214]  "push" e-mail. This could be personalized by class/interest.

[215]  When I last visited USMA it was not a football weekend and the Alumni Center was closed. I was advised that it was only open during football weekends. I suggest that it should be available on weekends for alumni whenever they visit. Not the standard 8-5 hrs Mon-Fri when AOG employees workweek dictates.

[216]  Televised news brief from grads in Bosnia or any other hot spots in the world. This would be perfectly acceptable to me as part of a joint academy recognition event with grads speaking from all of the academies. Could that be seen as a public service message?

[217]  AOG appears to be recently and quickly improving communications!

[218]  e-mail

[219]  Haven't thoroughly studied the problem but suspect communicaiton should improve. Too many surprises suddenly being passed on by class reps.

[220]  -aggressively find every grad with email and encourage them to be on a class listserver -use the email process as part of communications initiative -develop a personal profile for every grad that includes all communications and information desired by the grad

[221]  1. Incorporate an email capability which permits us to email to all members of our company at one time along with the ability to add addresses to the the list, e.g. C4 1971, Suermann, Jacobs. We can of course do this individually but it requires each of us to maintain a current email list.

[222]  An improved 'jobs file', and/or improved dissemination of networking opportunities (especially beyond JMO)

[223]  Most of the communications I receive from AOG have to do with cruises, contributions, and catalogue sales -- hence that is what I expect when I open AOG mail. email provide a unique way to send out information of special importance and web pages provide a means to letting those who want to see more detail of matters of personal interest a place to find it.

[224]  I paid for a subscription to the Assembly last year and I have yet to receive an issue. The check was cashed according to my bank records. E-mail is a good method of communication.

[225]  When looking up a grads e-mail address, perhaps have access to the Register data and a picture.

[226]  Let's not make graduation a strict requirement. Not having gone the full course, I never-the-less support the AOG ''mission statement.'' It would be odd if I am the only ex-cadet who feels this way.

[227]  No opinion...I'm 2,000+ miles and 16 years away from the place. It's not a big part of my daily life anymore.

[228]  I get frequent e-mail which keeps me up to date. The quality and quantity of this mail, both from AOG and our Class President, have increased to the point where I feel very informed of events and West Point news and needs.

[229]  I would like to be contacted by mail. I have not received any post from the AOG in sometime. (XXXXX)

[230]  Continue to expand computer-based communications.

[231]  1. Have AOG reply to the letters sent to it. 2. Maximize use of internet to get info out.

[232]  Seems like I'm getting a lot of superfluous e-mail

[233]  Publish e-mail contacts for AOG support. AOG might want to consider having each class appoint a single POC for AOG liaison efforts and info via e-mail. This could be a class officer who's on e-mail or any other volunteer.

[234]  For me being placed on a listserver would work. By your own demographics, such a service would only reach 1/3 of graduates.

[235]  -Improve network message capability via e-mail -Spend less time pushing AOG endorsed products and more time providing value-added services that do not gouge graduates. I would gladly donate more money if I valued the AOG services.

[236]  Completely revise the format of the Assembly. It provides very little information on current activities and issues at USMA except for the views of the senior leadership. There is no diversity of opinion. The "historical" articles are weak. Better choices would be vignettes of graduates in action who exemplify Duty, Honor, Country.

[237]  A newssletter that goes to all graduates, without subscription.

[238]  Don't overdo it. I get a lot of mail that does not get read.

[239]  e-mail list server more interactive web site

[240]  What about a regular list serve pointing to new thngs on the website?

[241]  Regular e-mail to grads on activities and trends at the Academy.

[242]  Continue to push the use of electronic information. Received a great alumni register from UNC-Chapel Hill this year on CD-ROM.

[243]  Emphasize to Board of Trustees, especially Class Trustees, the need to share information gained at Board meetings with classmates, either at class lunches or, preferably, in a letter sent to all classmates after Board meetings.

[244]  Just a thought, elements of the military community have "Home Page" areas sponsored by major internet carriers (AOL, MSN, Compuserve). Might be worth the time to get an alumni area set up for USMA. We want the public at large to know who we are and what we do, through an apparent and active alumni organization on a major server, we might get better name recognition, and better recruiting opportunities.

[245]  AOG staff needs to be better organized to respond to inquiries/problems of LGL grads, especially he or she who is just returning to "the home net" of the AOG after prolonged absence and is unfamiliar with admin procedures for getting updated from the AOG and updating personal info to the AOG.

[246]  Assembly is great Would try to encourage more e-mail participation by graduates

[247]  not enough space to list all so I'll just pass

[248]  Need more info on what is happening to Corps of Cadets at West Point. There is a lot of unhappiness among grads about changes at WP. I think part of this problem is lack of info about what is really happening. You must find a way to better communicate what is going on and put a graduate perspective on it, not just the USMA party line.

[249]  There is little contact between AOG and me other than the Assembly. There might be more if AOG informed me of how a retired (military and civilian) person could benefit from AOG.

[250]  Keep expanding and improving the Assembly, oddly it isn't mentioned as a communications vehicle

[251]  List E-mail addresses in Register

[252]  Solicit more help from graduates. There are a lot of people out there like myself who would gladly assist in any way possible, but are not sure how they can help.

[253]  Some months ago, AOG e-mailed me about a Philippine group seeking personal reminiscences of (XXXXX) as a cadet -- no postal or e-mail address for reply to Manila was provided by AOG. Not a heads-up use of e-mail, in my opinion.

[254]  Some space that we can access via the internet which may have issues posted on it, recent announcements, issues, letters to or from the AOG, and perhaps some running polls. We could have access either via a password or based on our IP address.

[255]  Generally get results from means cited above;however, am aware of others who have not gotten responses to e-mails, mail and calls,

[256]  tends to be too push on fund raising -- especially AA --and less on Cadet life & impact on military quick descriptions of funding shortfalls are sufficient to get monies

[257]  publish bot minutes in detail, promply

[258]  Info fr any source would be appeciated. I believe The Assembly is the way I currently get info. And, our local society could be more active in providing us info.

[259]  Expand internet services to include the Assembly for a fee via Internet and the Register for a fee via the internet.

[260]  Better use of email - ie minutes of AOG meetings, major events, etc.

[261]  Assembly on line

[262]  Provide more statistical data on graduates; # on active duty, # retired military, # civilian, rank stats when grads left military, etc.

[263]  Use the local societies to provide more information.

[264]  More continued emphasis on E-mail and WWW.

[265]  As I am about to retire I would like to know more about who is out there that can mentor me in my new field of public school system leadership

[266]  Increased use of e-mail

[267]  Establish class "BB's" on AOG site Allow dwnload of all class e-mail addresses , for grads only

[268]  move as much as possible to the internet...would pay same $$$ for electronic Assembly and Register...electronic versions would be more helpful

[269]  Just one general comment...I am happy with the direction that the AOG is taking with its Communications Committee. By adding West-Point.Org Representatives to the Committee and conducting surveys such as this, we can work jointly to provide the very best in communications services for our Alumni. I am very optimistic about the future!!! And yes, I am an optimist!!!

[270]  We need to "beat the bushes" (i.e., advertise) to get more e-mail and other current information on the thousands of graduates who have left no current forwarding info but who would probably join us if they heard from us, some how.

[271]  Provide substantive assistance to graduates who are trying to get state courts to recognize cadet service as active duty service in the Regular Army. Also, get the AOG to educate the non-USMA grads on the USMA staff and faculty to understand the above issue.

[272]  There should be a button on the AOG homepage and possibly on each class page that says something along the lines of "press here to find out how to give money to your class or your school"

[273]  More electronic data interchange

[274]  Add a Member Service Center for e-mail, phone, fax etc., to answer questions and get out information

[275]  The internet is the answer - however, "ALL" will not be served in the beginning, nor probably ever, but the future is upon us! The correct answer is that multiple ways of communication must be used.

[276]  email updates - email addresses for all will grow - its relatively easy and inexpensive.

[277]  I would like to see more information transmitted via e-mail. I would like to see the AOG make a concertyed effort to get as many graduates listed via the web site with e-mail addresses included in the Register of Graduates

[278]  Provide e-mail address as part of listing in the Registrar of Graduates

[279]  More e-mail

[280]  email

[281]  More use of email

[282]  1. A job and talent bi-directional database accessible to all, indexed by name, military specialty and status, civilian specialty (ies) and status, location, contact information and willingness or lack thereof to be networked to assist trtansition from military to civilian as well as job search / talent search once in civilian life.

[283]  e-mail

[284]  Keep up the Web Page. Post Email's as available for graduates. Hmmm..how about an electronic version of Register of Graduates?

[285]  more extensive use of electronic media...home pages.e-mail,etc

[286]  Reduce the number of fund-raising mailings that are sent out.

[287]  Hate the MASS mailings with long text. Send short message like this survey. Make the system pull versus push.

[288]  Not sure. Ive just started using Email.

[289]  email direct

[290]  Intra-company e-mail networks. (Example: a grad employed by GE is currently compliling a database/e-mail network of grads who work at GE.)

[291]  Our local society needs more current information concerning local addresses and phone numbers of graduates. Fort Hood sees many graduates come and go - keeping up with the flow is difficult for the society

[292]  My problem is not with AOG but my time available. Working, studying for a Doctorate, family, church, community, etc. There is not enough time.

[293]  Intra-company e-mail networks. (Example: a grad employed by GE is currently compliling a database/e-mail network of grads who work at GE.)

[294]

[295]  Push for more email use Push classes to use email internally

[296]  Assembly should take a fresh look at its format and contents -- in my opinion it is too focused on military topics (yes I understand what the "M" in USMA stands forand and that many graduates make the milittary their life). But just as important, many grads complete their military service and go on to make important contributions to the nation and world in widely diverse arear such as business, academia, and non-defense government. Likewise, I would expect Assembly to represent the growing diversity of professions, trades and careers in which graduates find themselves. West Point gave me much more than a great military education to succeed in life -- let's reflect the breadth of a West Point education and post-USMA activities by making the Assembly more cosmopolitan. Duty-Honor-Country applies equally to all of our endeavors. Take a look at Notre Dame's (and others I suspect) to see how this can be done. PS: I spent 21.5 years in service and now work for an international pharmaceutical company.

[297]  Regular "e-mailings" as a reminder to check homepages or to highlight items of interest

[298]  Keep up the good work to develop web and cyber connections--those will pay off in the future

[299]  email, contact to graduates.

[300]  Email is effective as long as you don't overload the recipients.

[301]  Better business networking

[302]  More extensive use of E-Mail

[303]  Comment-It must actively/aggressively pursue changes of addresses from those active duty members who move every one, two, or three years. Would suggest a mailing, or better, e-mail every fall to reconfirm proper addresses.

[304]  More consistent in sending out Gift Shop catalog. I did not receive one for several years.

[305]  Even though I initially subscribed to Assembly when I graduated, I never received a copy.

[306]  Don't send postal mail to my work address. Send it to my home address.

[307]  1. Develop more worthwhile services for graduates to supplement aggessive fund-raising efforts. 2. Make the AOG gift shop (mailings etc) more user-friendly

[308]  1. Make better use of internet 2. Explain and publicize Officer & Trustee selections 3. Back off a notch or two on money solicitation

[309]  Perhaps once a year publish a listing of addresses for key people to contact; that is email, etc. Remind eveyone in assembly about email, internet, etc, Perhaps once a year with the renewal of the assembly send out an email listing or where to get the email listing or addresses for those that were in that grad's year, also pre and post grads for friends that they made

[310]  1. more frequent e-mail communications 2. close communication with class webmaster and officers

[311]  The AOG needs to run issues by the members and get input from them before acting. This needs to be done via the Assembly, the Internet, Home Page, Societies, Class Organizations and surveys such as this. There have been too many decisions made by the AOG/BOT without using participatory mangaement and involvement of the members. These decisions give the appearance of being announced to members after the fact without membership input.

[312]  List individual Email addresses in the Register, if known

[313]  I have requested information from the AOG Online service on two previous occasions in an attempt to subscribe to the Assembly and re-establish ties with AOG, however the service has been unresponsive.

[314]  Baltimore area society

[315]  keep enhancing the e-mail and internet web-sites.

[316]  Seems OK now while I'm using a work address. In a year of so when I give up my day job and have to rely on an ISP from home my opinion may change. I wouldn't object to recommendations for ISPs one could use when on the move while vacationing.

[317]  Sometimes frustrated with late information. Try to be more timelt and get the info out earlier re: reunions, AOG Items, etc.

[318]  None recommended, it is hard to be happy when you don't know what service the AOG provides now.

[319]  e-mail

[320]  Opt-in e-mail list that would update graduates on events and issues of importance to us. Would even consider paying for Assembly online to prevent the mailing of a huge document containing only a handful of relevant pages.

[321]  Email

[322]  Do more via email, this is nearly the 21st century and we need to stay current.

[323]  Weekly or bi-monthly email on current issues and actions occurring at AOG and the Corps

[324]  Get additional phone lines for gift shop & people to answer them.

[325]  Set up potential small groups using zip-codes to find members who live close to one another.

[326]  It appears to me that the AOG exists principally to serve itself and the Supe, rather than those who pay its salaries, the members. Some staff appear disdainful of the membership. The attitude appears to be, "the AOG knows best, so why consult anyone else?" The members should not have to look through a glass darkly. The agenda and actions of the AOG should be transparent. If it would spend a little less time trying to fill cruise ships and a little more time talking with its membership, I believe we would all be better off.

[327]  Solicitations for funds are coached as my duty and are not. This should stop. I know my duty and the AOG no longer tells me what it is.

[328]  First, priority must be given to allocating resources for programs to modernize communication methods. This enables development and instruction for upgraded E-mail and Internet activity. Greatly improved telephone, mailing, printing, and multi-participant television conferences are also needed. Geared to future needs, advances must integrate inputs from individual Graduates, Societies, and Classes. Second, program changes must reinforce the AOG communications objective. Each Graduate certainly aspires "To forever serve the United States, the Military Services, and the Military Academy". One way the AOG responds is by providing Graduates easy opportuity to participate in such service. The AOG serves not only to "inform" graduates, but to update and create programs to increase Graduate capacity to participate, across the board. The 1997 Survey is but one of many programs suited for doing this.

[329]  More use of e.mail

[330]  E-mail if it could be screened so that all broadcast messages aren't automatically sent.

[331]  Provide us the Register on CD-Rom...Update annually. Yes, you could charge the same as the Register. Lower your cost, our cost, and make it more useful...save some trees.

[332]  I recommend that the mail list be separated so that every graduate from previous classes does not have to hear what the parents of the class of 97 are doing each and every day.

[333]  Phone number that enables us to actually get through and that they'll actually answer

[334]  However, I am a Trustee and therefore get more access than most grads.

[335]  I would like AOG & West-Point.Org to integrate their offerings on the Internet.

[336]  I am please with the quality service AOG provides although, presently, my situation precludes fuller participation.

[337]  No opinion

[338]  Stop sending trip information and other good deals such as lamps etc. If I were interested I would contact you. You waste money by sending out junk mail.

[339]  More inforamtion reagarding the various items available to me in various cities. Lists of West Point Local chapters made available to me more easily.

[340]  I am new to receiving information via e-mail but I believe this will be a valuable form of communication.

[341]  I am not sure that I could make any improvement.

[342]  Strengthen the internet home pages with class newsgroups. We can run threaded discussions and maintain more continuous communication over the internet.

[343]  West Point Societies and the AOG need to educate older graduates on how to use computers, email, and the internet. Many older graduates are afraid to attempt to move into the computer age. Surprising, but true.

[344]  Better web site-include more photos, update material more frequently.

[345]  I do not like getting junk e-mail. If AOG is going to send me e-mail, I would prefer that it be a message that pertains to me and not to all graduates.

[346]  ARMY Football/sports- as USMA enters Conf USA, those of us who will support team at away games- USM, Tulane, Memphis St, UA-Birmingham need timely info on game time changes, i.e. Tulane game time change in 97 should have been communicated earlier and more effectively to Societies/organizations who were sponsoring special events.

[347]  More info on what is going on in the Corps of Cadets and changes proposed. A chance to participate in what is going on.

[348]  e-mail

[349]  I just recently moved so have not joined local society yet. I was a long time member of society in previous locations and society in DC was very good source of info.

[350]  A monthly E-newsletter would be fantastic

[351]  I do not know if AOG participates in the Class Homepages on the internet, but my class page switched formats about 1 year ago and ever since it is VERY user un-friendly. Other classmates I have talked to feel the same way. This problem must be fixed as we as a society become more dependent on the internet for communications.

[352]  Broadcast emails to graduates would be helpful when significant events need to be communicated. However, it should NOT be a fund raising tool.

[353]  I don't really have occasion to communicate with AOG. The communication available to me through the Assembly satisfies my needs for information.

[354]  a 1-800 toll free number

[355]  See above. I feel the same way that (XXXXX) does. The Academy is a national institution and not something that a bunch of old grads need to maintain. The reason for the AOG seems to have become misguided. I would gladly support with my funds things other than monuments to drinking your own bathwater.

[356]  Save money by deleting mailings to those with email and send the info/requests via email.

[357]  Believe you can reach more graduates through e-mail and electronic communications. Until I forwarded my e-mail address to a classmate, I had not heard from the AOG in 15+ years. Believe active duty graduates are the least represented group in the AOG population.

[358]  A listserv for electronic distribution of general information. Essentially, make "Assembly" and electronic publication in which articles are delivered by e-mail. Creating a homepage for this is not very good since it takes time to go there. In other words, from a human factors perspective, make receipt of info effortless except to originally sign up.

[359]  Eliminate mail concerning cruises. Address health care for retired on Medicare. The Retired Officers Assn is very active here and could use AOG support.

[360]  * Get more classmates involved or use local societies more. Too much now is "mass mailings", especially as it relates to financial requests. Class Gifts seem a better way to personalize ones contributions. Do all you can to educate concerning use of internet and e-mail.

[361]  Open record of AOG meeting agendas and then copy of minutes of the meetings, to include Executive Committees, Finance Committee, etc. and then the Director's meetings. FULL AND OPEN DISCLOSURE ON THE NET AND BY MAIL.

[362]  Up to now there has been no reason to communicate with AOG.

[363]  Continue to send messages to my e-mail

[364]  Recommend AOG try an e-mail system similar to the nets in use for the cadet parents, e.g Plebe. net, etc.

[365]  Closer communications with each class representatives.

[366]  Job networking Job opportunities

[367]  neither of the above

[368]  Greater use of direct e-mail to graduates.

[369]  Expand (and fund) the west-point.org server for use by all AOG andmembers ... Email is fast becoming THE method to communicate in this technologically-inclined world: let's make the most of the internet-type services we have.

[370]  Recommend that e-mail messages to AOG and USMA staff be answered within one week of receipt. Not all questions are acknowledged w/ a reply.

[371]  More personalized - possibly from class officers - would make the communications more social

[372]  I used to have a subscription to the Assembly, but it ran out. I was never notified/encouraged to renew my subscription. I have also notified AOG that my paternal grandfather (XXXXX) was USMA '35 and my great-great grandfather (XXXXX) was USMA '77 and that I would like that to be annotated in the register of graduates. My fatther also said that he wrote AOG a letter to the same effect, with similar results. I would appreciate a change to the register the next time one is published.

[373]  more info on the homepage, major drive to get all grads listed on their class homepage.

[374]  E-mail updates

[375]  1. I do not receive enough information on USMA ongoings, and proposed changes. Official articles from AOG/West Point read like pep rallies on paper. My other source of information is rumors, which is unrelible, but certainly feels more genuine than the PR/propaganda otherwise received. 2. I would like to know where USMA/AOG money is gong. I would NEVER vote to spend USMA/AOG money to send USMA cheerleaders to a National Cheerleading competition. I dare you to defend to the American Public how that even betters our ability to defend the Constitution. 3. I would like a VOICE in USMA/AOG. When USMA considers changes in policy curriculum, does it seek advice from AOG? And if so, who among AOG gives it? AOG should NOT echo USMA sentiments. USMA has political pressures that the graduate community does not; indeed the graduate community must exist as a checks/balance system. USMA feels the pressure of trends; AOG should push back, reminding USMA of its tried and true strengths. AOG should most certainly not give USMA money without a voice. My 10th year reunion approaches; neither I nor any of my classmates have EVER been approached for input on issues concerning USMA programs, changes, etc.

[376]  Encourage entry into e-mail system

[377]  Work eamil harder. Almost everyone has it and they check it often enough for AOG to get their message out in a timely manner.

[378]  It seems to me that the AOG has become the voice for the Superintendent and Administration at USMA rather than putting forth the collective views of the graduates.

[379]  Email subscription lists

[380]  The absolute number of persons employed by the AOG too conduct business, particularly those engaged in fund raising, seems to be excessive to the results achieved. It would appear that a "lean and mean" structure would be less expensive (in terms of salaries and fringe benefits) and perhaps just as (or nearly as) effective.

[381]  Offer the option to email all documents. use HTML or .PDF for distribution format.

[382]  More postings directly to class list servers on important or time sensitive issues (but not solicitations to buy products)

[383]  800 number

[384]  continue to utilize technology to contact members, disseminate info

[385]  You're already on the right track. Keep working to improve communications using email....

[386]  Monthly e-mail letter

[387]  Does the AOG plan on creating a web site?

[388]  More e-mail messages about ongoing activities

[389]  Increase Supt Sends messages to AOG with Email Addresses Increased feedback via Homepages/Assembly Articles

[390]  Information technology creates a DMZ between classes; those who understand and embrace, those who straddle that line, and those who don't understand. The real answer is to use that technology and hope those who don't understand are wise enough to embrace it. If you don't force the issue, it won't happen.

[391]  Online version of assembly? Register online? What about an AOG Listserv?

[392]  This question seems designed to put AOG in a better light than might otherwise be the opinion of the graduates. My continuing concern about AOG is that it seems to be staffed with graduates who spent their last years in the Army at West Point rather than out in the Army where the rubber meets the road. My experience with AOG (and West Point for that matter) as a class president negotiating arrangements for our 40th reunion confirmed my opinion that the place is too inbred; we need grads in the AOG but we need grads who didn't opt out of regular (small "r") Army service. Cheers!

[393]  1. More conferences (Regional) 2. More planned activitities

[394]  Better use of internet

[395]  Perhaps a newsletter which could be mailed out to graduates.

[396]  more email

[397]  1.) Strongly urge all graduates to become computer literate. 2.) Send someone from the AOG to the major societies at some other time during the year other than just Founder's Day. This would be a second communication with the societies each year.

[398]  Overall, I am satisfied with my communications with AOG but I would like to see continued development of the online resources. I find WestPoint.org to be very convenient.

[399]  Graduates must talk to graduates. The more you say by more means of communication, the more the word gets out. e-mail and web is good but for more official matters.

[400]  post the assembly on the WP home page... w/ listing of e-mail addresses by class

[401]  I dislike telephone contact - my time at home is reserved for my family, especially evenings.

[402]  Support individual class newsletters

[403]  Continue development of the on-line capabilities. I have received most of my timely updates from long distance via this medium.

[404]  Like to see more regular email of what is going on.

[405]  More friendly publications with information readily available; email.

[406]  periodic letter supplement to assembly

[407]  Ridiculous as it may seem, Communication with AOG should be even simpler. Lists of names, E-mail addresses and communication protocol need to be published frequently. There are lots of us who still don't check our E-mail daily and/or completely understand the jargon frequently used by the "more literate" of our fellow grads. Old F___s like me need a lot of guidance.

[408]  Class of '75 has a great on-line commo section--especially and only due to Dempsey darrow's persopnal; attention to this medium. AOG should consider ahiring a "dempsey"type person to manage its on-line commo, full time.

[409]  I really did not know the AOG had an active web site. I recommend sending out updates periodically to all those with known email addresses. In the email state that if a person does not wish to receive the update, they shoud respond back stating their desire.

[410]  Focus on Graduate relations and communication. Leave fund raising to the West Point Fund. Tighten the mission statement. It sounds like the Supe's job and not an organisation dedicated to getting graduate's support for the Supe, etc.

[411]  This past week was the first time I ever received and information over the net. Appears to me this method is more timely and likely less expensive to AOG.

[412]  It might save them printing money to distribute material through West-Point.org email for those graduates using that service.

[413]  Electronic mail and postings on web page would be best for me.

[414]  Improved tracking of active duty members. Current AOG structure appears geared toward those graduates who have left active duty and are often more location stable.

[415]  You need a bigger budget to get AOG officers out to the local societies on other than Founder's Day meetings on a regular basis - off post activities so that the senior military (active and retired) don't dominate the interactions

[416]  Internet communication is relatively new and very efficient.

[417]  There seems to be constant improvement.

[418]  Continue to develop better ways to use the internet to conduct business, e.g. e-mail, listservers, and this WWW survey.

[419]  Use available technology - e-mail & internet more.

[420]  I think an online newsletter mailed out quarterly would be an inexpensive method of communicating.

[421]  All graduates should have an e-mail address

[422]  Limited use of e-mail. Too much coming through.

[423]  The focus of AOG communications is slanted heavily towards active duty members. I'd be interested to know what percentage of graduates are actually still on active duty. If my hunch is correct, I'm surprised we don't see features on graduates doing well in business or the public sector.

[424]  Use e-mail more often and give us information on purchasing athletic tickets to support our teams.

[425]  Use more e-mail Ensure you have titles correct (ie. don't mail me stuff addressed to "LT Starzmann" - I have not been one of those for a long time!

[426]  More communications via email as I am located a great distance from West Point, and postal mail is rather slow.

[427]  --Think AOG is moving in the right direction with more internet/email connectivity ... this allows immediate access to info (in both directions) and greatly enhances the disemination of information

[428]  1) Make a greater effort to keep the graduates informed on any changes being comtemplated by the USMA hierarchy. And make it a key tenet of this program to provide objective information, not the party line. 2) Make it a major goal of the AOG to represent the graduates in the halls of authority at the Academy. You are supposed to represent us; you more often appear to be representing the Supe. Rather than informing, you appear to be providing a conduit for propaganda from the USMA authorities. Instead, you should develop a system for getting a sensing of the collective opinion of the graduates and then present this information to the policy-makers.

[429]  Improve AOG's ability to communicate with grads via email. (Thanks for your work to date in this area)

[430]  Can not tell. I am the one who needs to do a better job of keeping touch. I think the e-mail by class is a great start.

[431]  Acknowledge e-mail msgs; answer phone calls

[432]  Email communication would be most preferred

[433]  e-mail which you are in process of establishing.

[434]  Provide more pages in Assembly to Class notes and less to extraeneous articles that are normally available in other military publications.

[435]  Have a listserver that would automatically (even daily) send out class news, USMA news, etc. I subscribe to the Airborne Ranger Listserver which is quite an active, informative, and congenial forum for exchange of information, etc.

[436]  Use the Internet. Rely more on Class Leaders for communication with graduates.

[437]  Closer coordination/cooperation w/ West-Point.org

[438]  It seems that the AOG can get the US Army to help publish the current status of all of the former cadets instead of the most current listing (which seems to be from graduation day for most).

[439]  Have an updated portion of the AOG webpage which actively lists changes to policies and programs at West Point and their status.

[440]  Improved communications between grads & AOG. Separating the WP Fund from the AOG. A more precise AOG mission statement.

[441]  Offer more electronic mail and internet usage.

[442]  - "Thread" West-Point.org discussions better. - E-mail notices of significant new content on USMA & AOG home pages.

[443]  I Was Not Aware that West-point.org existed. Publicise, through mail, to grads about the online services available to them.

[444]  Suggest something similiar to a quarterly report focused on key AOG concerns. Email it or mail to those without email.

[445]  "Push" e-mail that announces information or refers to a WWW site for more info.

[446]  Roll wp.org into existing socieites or roll up under AOG home page. I notice that the wp.org page is hawking books. What's next, zirconium earrings with the academy crest?

[447]  Expand internet/email capabilities

[448]  More surveys on given issues would be appropriate

[449]  I have not had much contact of late, but e-mail communications are easiest.

[450]  Based upon the info available on WP-Org

[451]  Better coordination between AOG and Class communication to reduce redundant/excess communication.

[452]  I am not sure. The information age advances so rapidly that this is a dynamic question.

[453]  As a whole, I normally would not ask for any changes--the system you have is excellent. But I sure would enjoy having, better/easier access to classmates. Is there any way, without violating the Privacy Act, that addresses can be accessed for those without email?

[454]  startup of Email is outstanding.

[455]  See Number 17 below

[456]  Concentrate more on career placement for graduates. (facilitate professional networks)

[457]  Keep graduates abreast of pending actions, and solicit more input into these decisions, before they become a reality. Many grads feel that the AOG acts on their own, without due consideration of the opinions of the graduates at-large.

[458]  List?

[459]  Cut down duplicative mailings requesting WP Fund contributions

[460]  more email and list servers for each class

[461]  More Web Site postings

[462]  To the extent that AOG and West-Point.org do not already overlap, it seems they should work closely together.

[463]  While I am not unhappy with communications from AOG, such as they are, they seem to mostly be appeals for contributions. I am therefore rather indifferent to how those communications come to me. I have had little need to communicate with AOG outside of providing information for the Register, renewing my subscription for the Assembly and sending in occasional contributions. When and if there are things I wish to communicate to AOG, I will probably use the internet, now that I know that AOG is on-line, but if I need to vent on a subject, I will probably want to speak to someone on the phone.

[464]  Interactive Web Site

[465]  Dedicated section in the Assembly. Call it "Rolling with the Changes".

[466]  Would like to have Class info directly sent to my E-mail address so that I do not have to go retrieve same.

[467]  Use e-mail more.

[468]  I LIKE EMAIL UPDATES BUT THEY SHOULD BE CONCISE AND FOCUS ON WHAT YOU WANT ME TO DO TO SUPPORT USMA.

[469]  E-mail News on significant class news items.

[470]  A better, more effective class column in Assembly. The current class column centers on the class scribe himself and his inner clique of friends (first and last paragraph always centered on himself; a photo of himself or his wife every other issue in the past, although these are becoming less frequent; use of nicknames and coded messages that only those of his inner clique can understand; poor writing skills and grammar; cryptic, log-type entries as opposed to coherent paragraphs)

[471]  better use of email, internet

[472]  Direct broadcast of AOG issues as well as posting on the web page would be helpful

[473]  quit using multiple mailing list, ie, merge known addrsses into a master list so that all AOG functions are using the "master"

[474]  I have been barely involved with the AOG for many years, and my primary interest is in knowing about my classmates and possibly a few others with whom I have had some contact over the years. Class newsletters over email, or even company newsletters, would be most interesting to me. Digitized pictures of classmates and families might be fun if that could be set up on a web server. My level of interest is at the "Family Christmas newsletter" level mostly, with the option of direct email or other personal communication the objective.

[475]  Fix that darn database so that it recognizes grads married to grads! I'm constantly getting mail asking me why I don't subscribe to the Assembly. My husband subscribes!! He and I are very close, so he lets me read his copy....

[476]  Expand e-mail/internet capability along with timely and expanded information updates.

[477]  I do not understand the financial status of the AOG. The endouwment, its annual costs, expenditure, investment return and contributions. IN 1997 a flyer went out to explain it better. THis flyer failed in my opinion. I gave somewhat disjointed feedback and received no response to clairify my concerns or respond to my suggestions. A response would have been appreciated..Harvey

[478]  Minutes of Executive Sessions where decisions are made, even within the scope of current policies.

[479]  Requested commo opportunities such as this survey. Feedback letters, info on Internet site from class.

[480]  Informative e-mail newsletters, etc.

[481]  I would like to be on AOG's mailing list as well as its e-mail list (if it sends out information on a regular basis via the internet). It would be good to know what services are available (in general) and through what venue.

[482]  1. Provide discounts for such items as health insurance and telephone credit cars, etc. Hotels and other firms that provide Grad discounts could be listed on the AOG Website. 2. A good cadet locator system; think here that you could tie into and help the WP-Org folks as they seem to be doing a great job. 3. The giving program could be beefed up. My Class is reaching a point where most of us are thinking about this sort of thing. I know that I am.

[483]  I am satisfied with the communications because of our Class Rep-- George Lawton '58. This does not infer that I am happy with AOG services.

[484]  Periodic email to verify accuracy of their lists, update based on members interests

[485]  Career support network not for just transitions off active duty but throughout one's civilian career.

[486]  There should be one "global" electronic W.P. newsletter sent to all grads highlighting the pertinent issues and news so we are not bombarded with hordes of email from local societies, class presidents, AOG etc. - all with different messages and agendas. Remember that there are a bunch of us out here that have a casual interest in what's happening at our old school; but don't want to be flooded with a bunch of email on issues and news that is trivial and/or confusing. Stick to the "big news" with the ability to peel the onion back if we find an issue we want to get involved in.

[487]  I would like to be able to order the Assembly and Register via EMAIL and not have to faxe in a request.

[488]  Email distribution works best for me, because I check it throughout every day at work. My only suggestion would be to provide a more consistent look to the email message, and to definitely make it easier to read. With so many various email formats, you probably have to send things out in text. I've seen very effective graphics-based email messages which, if possible, would be a very effective communications tool for the AOG.

[489]  An expanded internet capability, such as updating personal profiles and addresses.

[490]  e-mail

[491]  The ONLY time I hear from AOG is to solicit contributions from me or to sell me something; that is, until this survey.

[492]  clearly identify web sources & e-mail address in articles found in Assembly or AOG/other publications where we can go for related or additional information on the topic.

[493]  1)Provide easier and more effective means for graduates to provide input well in advance of decisions affecting the Academy and its graduates.

[494]  Focus on working with Congress to provide what OFFICERS, particularly West Point grads, were promised. Help educate Congress, and don't leave that to the old boy network at TROA and others. Congress doesn't understand our needs and our service and what the military is all about--help educate them like Heritage Foundation does on other issues, only from a military perspective. Don't leave that to the West Point Society of D.C. Take an active role in health care needs, protecting COLAs, etc, for USMA grads. Help LTG Christman make the case for more APPROPRIATED funds. Fund raising can only go so far with military retirees that did not dedicate their lives to making money, as Ivy Leaguers and others do. We need to make the case that in return for our service, we should be adequately compensated. Right now, I could not in good conscience advise a son or daughter to attend West Point and make the military a career, because of the many breaches of faith from both parties, from Kasich to Clinton, on everything from the current disgraceful health care situation we face to the COLA reductions we have faced. AOG needs to help grads as much as cadets. In the current climate, I would like to see more effort on grad benefits that will affect future grads, and less on social things such as cruises. It seems that the only things I get in the mail from AOG are solicitations for money and glitzy brochures for cruises that are too expensive for the majority of grads.

[495]  This applies to me only: I am doggone busy and do not appreciate the time it takes to read a lot of chest-thumping by the generals up there. I will read short, to-the-point summaries by the people who work the problems. I appreciated the letters I received from the soccer coach and from the old pistol coach of several years ago. I was able to read my father's Assembly and Register of Graduates for years until it became obvious that there was too much fluff and no meat (I didn't feel I learned anything), hence never subscribed. Things may have changed since, but as of about 1990, my old prep school kept me better informed of their problems than the AOG did. If you have changed the editorial policies of the Assembly, then send me a copy, maybe I will subscribe.

[496]  See my comments on 17.

[497]  Save mail money, send info via e-mail. You could also provide services for grads who are not at the academy. You may already have some, but I am not aware of them. Most of the extra programs I am aware of were started without AOG assistance.

[498]  Include on annual mailing

[499]  More efforts like this one. I neither had the AOG e-mail address nor was aware that you were interested in improving communications. Plus, it was great to see the name of an old friend, Bob MaGruder. ps. Usually, the only reason for communications is money collection.

[500]  1. Inform members at large and assist USMA graduates who may hold or are seeking elected office in state or federal gov't.

[501]  not sure what to recommend but definitely feel a void and opprotunity for improvement. also, given the high number of grads who elect not to complete 20 years or more, suggest that more effort be made to be inclusive rather than exclusive

[502]  Put together a comprehensive online directory of grads listing all sorts of information about each, but make it secure so that only 'registered' users (i.e. grads) can access the info.

[503]  E-Mail has opened many advantageous new opportunities to facilitate communications.

[504]  More use of email

[505]  My husband and I are both USMA graduates. I continue to get requests from AOG to subscribe to the "Assembly" since we get it under his name. The AOG database must be fixed to reflect USMA grads married to each other!

[506]  The current directions in the use of the Internet and Web technology are good and should be more fully exploited.

[507]  Question begs a very broad answer. Within my own knowledge and understanding, it would seem appropriate to capitalize emerging technologies and expand e-mail and other computer based communication.

[508]  I would like to receive any information from AOG. I have somehow fallen off of the subscription list for the Assembly/Registrar. Since I get no information through the mail, I have not been able to subscribe or send a contribution to my Class Fund.

[509]  More mailings via e-mail

[510]  Get some kind of consensus before bestowing Thayer Award. Cronkite was a disastrous choice --and I am certain would not have happened if those of his period had been asked.

[511]  LESS SALESMANSHIP- MORE DIRECT FACTS AS TO WHAT THE AOG HAS DONE, IS DOING AND WILL DO

[512]  Keep working at getting better; I've noticed improvements in the tone of letters, etc; my view is that AOG exists to serve the alumni; in the past, at times I was feeling that "the alumni existed to serve the AOG."

[513]  Better info in Assembly- special mailings on items of importance.

[514]  1. Publish AOG minutes on Westpoint.org listserv 2. Survey grads by email, internet, and mail for concerns

[515]  Now the AOG catalog is on line... I'm happy.

[516]  The Assembly is a great means of communication, but it does not provide the frequency I would prefer. I also receive the Army Sportsletter and the Cauliflower Ear (Wrestling newsletter). Finally, I also have an "inside" connection through a cousin who is currently a yearling. I would like a monthly newsletter/magazine that gives more information on the Corps of Cadets (sports/activities/accomplishments/etc.). I like to read more about the cadets and the Academy now than graduate information (although I enjoy reading it also).

[517]  Reg mail E-mail

[518]  E-Mail of AOG Newsletter E-Mail of Sports Schedules E-Mail of Class Columns

[519]  Could AOG send an email notice just listing new topics on the website each month to prompt members to browse the site?

[520]  More use of E-mail/Internet

[521]  Make sure local societies have addresses of all grads in area so we can be invited to local functions including Founders Days

[522]  More key/important announcements via e-mail through class representative.

[523]  More in depth coverage of how academy is changing to meet the needs of the country and the U.S. Army in the 21st Century. Other than that, the Assembly and other communications are very good.

[524]  E-mail.

[525]  Continue to utilize the Internet and promote in all AOG communications

[526]  Need to continue to develop the email communications by using the class webmasters and/or scribes. (XXXXX) and Supe sends have begun this dialog and it is getting better. In informal discussions with my classmates, I have learned that most of my class does not know what AOG is doing for them.

[527]  Please put registry on-line and add e-mail field.

[528]  Realize probably not possible but worth a shot. After 7 years on Staff & Faculty (6 with Cmdts side -Tac & DMI:PM for Summer Trng)I know well how rumors spread from within the Corps to Alum and families. Partly responsible for the rapid spread and magnification of events is the ultra-closed nature of USMA. Normally, communicated facts proved to add a degree of reasonableness to whatever had occurred and understanding was achieved; however, that was only achievable within the immediate USMA community and surrounding area. To the extent that the stories had spread outside that arena they not only perpetuated themselves but, in many cases, continued to grow. Proposed solution: e-mails to the USMA audience with the story and the facts and not a glowing account about how right the faculty (or whoever)is and how the other has just misunderstood. The faculty does occasionally make dumb mistakes which cadets are fully capable of recognizing (remember, they are the best and the brightest) --this ability does not always come after some specified period of 10 years or 20 years. Hopefully we are all wise enough to know that common sense can be found in many young adults while it unfortunately eludes some of the older -- to include those who are placed in increasingly more responsible positions. Anyway, honest communications ("we made a mistake and had not identified all of the possible ramifications") goes a long way towards lessening the negative affects of "keeping it in-house" ... particularly, since this phenomenon has never been achieved. We certainly should not attempt to "govern" the Academy by committee and by soliciting a ground swell of opinion when we disagree -- only those who are THERE are in the position to know all the facts and add the perspective of being on the ground. However, we all would be served better by an Academy that is open about those things which have a segment of the community upset whether it is cadets or families in quarters or members of the staff and faculty. We (out here) have a need to know and understand so we do not conclude idiocy prevails.

[529]  Email

[530]  Ability to electronically change my mailing address.

[531]  Put Assembly magazine on-line and don't limit length of class notes

[532]  e-mail

[533]  Put more stories about current cadet life in the Assembly.

[534]  Reduce number of publications (to one home page and the Assembly) that say the same thing.

[535]  Improve the quality of the Assembly. See the Harvard and Yale magazines for examples.

[536]  More OPEN communications; Advise members of issues and alternatives under consideration, not just results after they are decided.

[537]  I was aware of AOG page, but not west-point.org. I think all the necessary information is available, but all the avenues should be listed in a box in each essue of Assembly, just as Time Magazine does.

[538]  Regular e-mail

[539]  Communications are good and improving. This survey is a great example of this. Keep it up.

[540]  I think the AOG does a great job. In the not too distant future, technology will provide some additional means to include CD's and separate channel TV.

[541]  1) Like many other universities, USMA should have transcripts available for viewing and ordering via the internet (See Indiana University's INSITE program, or Portland State University's electronic transcript viewing and ordering system.) 2) AOG should draw on wealthy Grads who may want to start a low-interest fund to help grads pay for graduate school expenses. I'd rather pay a USMA grad organization 4 or 5% interest on the roughtly $150,000 that I will be taking out in student loans for Optometry School, than 8.25% to the government. 3) It would be nice to have a USMA AOG affiliated health plan with Blue Cross/Blue Shield, or some other insurance organization.

[542]  too many to list

[543]  Please explain how AOG trustees are selected. Perhaps I'm missing something, but I cannot recall ever being asked to vote for a trustee -- and I read the "Assembly" regularly. Please explain. Thanks

[544]  Keep improving the user-friendliness and scope of automated means of commo and using data bases.

[545]  1. Clearly defined mission statement 2. Distinction between AOG purpose and WP Fund 3. Communicate efforts for Congressional funding support as well as fund raising efforts.

[546]  Return calls promptly Don't overuse automatic equipment or processes !!!

[547]  Increase use of e-mail

[548]  I realize that the AOG contributes greatly to the support of the academy, but I do not appreciate the continuing deluge of letters and flyers in the mail. If some time in the future I would like to do more (subscribe, or join the local society) I already know how.

[549]  - Work to gather more comprehensive contact list for each of the classes. Holes in the data limit the overall usefullness of the system

[550]  e-mail

[551]  Increased use of email Increase phone contact

[552]  Centralize electronic dissemination of information as much as possible. Eliminate the AOG-vs- WP-ORG discord.

[553]  Except for the recent increase in email, I have always felt quite distant from the issues facing the Academy and any related dialog. With electronic distribution perhaps bringing costs down, it will be possible to keep more folks better informed and included. Other than that, I would like to recieve a frequent printed newletter of AOG highlights. Is The Assembly available on-line? It's been awhile, but when I did subscribe, it seemed pricey and too class-oriented. Are there separate class newsletters?

[554]  Use e-mail more frequently

[555]  I would like only 1 letter / msg: both my wife and I are graduates, but the AOG systems do not recognize that fact (annoying to get multiple requests for subscibing to the assembly when we've already done so under one name, etc.)

[556]  See #13 above

[557]  Some AOG staff members need to get the message that telephone call-backs are important and should be made in a TIMELY manner. This, of course, is the result of having a voice mail system that lets some of them hide from calls.

[558]  I cannot provide an intelligent response to this question and the others below where I check a ? because of limited knowledge concerning the AOG

[559]  Information on Items Available from Gift shop (catalog).

[560]  E-mail of important messages as USNA does. However, do not everload us. There are already many things we do not have time to read.

[561]  I cannot provide an intelligent response to this and other questions below marked with ?? Reason is lack of familiarity with AOG

[562]  Be more discriminating in use of email! I normally delete ALL email from WP-ORG and/or AOG because it has been used so indiscriminately (most abuse attributable to WP-ORG) for inappropriate things such as finding jobs for graduates, football game info, etc. For a while, my email account was routinely clogged with junk mail from WP-ORG---it was maddening. The only reason that I have this survey is that I am married to one of my classmates, and he had saved this site so that my father (also a grad who lives with us) might complete the survey. I feel confident that I had also received the survey in email, but deleted as soon as I noted WP or AOG in the subject line. Also, suggest AOG use their computers to screen addresses for mass mailings. Our household receives 3 of every USMA-wide solicitation: one for (XXXXXX) ('42), one for (XXXXXX) ('82), and one for (XXXXX) ('82). We are not unique. I never read mail from USMA addressed to me as it has become something of an aggravation. It is a waste of AOG postage and paper. Seeing that sort of waste leaves me resentful and not inclined to give the money/support I would be otherwise inclined to extend. There must be a more efficient way.

[563]  Password protected area of AOG website for Graduates listing most current mailing addresses, phone numbers and email addresses.

[564]  There seems to be a scattered approach and duplication of effort between the classes, the AOG, west Point Org, etc. I see progress and think the problem is being addressed, but would like to see more consolidation.

[565]  Put full text of Assembly on line, and send links and article highlights to grads. Do not charge for this service.

[566]  Continued evolution of AOG web site and class specific list servers

[567]  I would like to see more options here. I am not "happy" with my communications, - a loaded survey question. But I am not familiar with the options either. This question and several others in the survey appear to be slanted to obtain response favorable to the AOG. If most of the grads respond "none", will someone report that the grads are "happy" with AOG communications and services? Come on guys, - you could do better than this.

[568]  Continue to improve current systems

[569]  This is a not-well-thought-out question. Not enough choices. There should be a third block "I am not happy with my communications and service from AOG."PERIOD, NO EXPLANATION NEEDED."

[570]  I think an email bulletin on an occasional basis would provide a feeling of immediacy and importance which would insure readership.

[571]  Regular e-mail postings are very effective to provide important information updates.

[572]  Admit that WP-ORG provides better internet capabilities than AOG...and stop spending AOG (our) money trying to compete. WP-ORG has developed these capabilities with less than $50k and volunteer efforts.

[573]  Better sccess to local WP Society POCs, e.g., had a tough time getting local WPS info via the web, home pages, etc.

[574]  is there an e-mail news letter? Advertisement

[575]  I get alumni booklets from RPI for free and it makes the cost at AOG such that I buy one only once every two or three years--if you could publish on the internet or for free it would probably increase your income because more guys would get the message.

[576]  Maintain ongoing research, surveys etc., to enrich, enliven, and evolve the Assembly magazine to insure it's relevance and interest to graduates. Include more controversial issues, opinions/articles by cadets, articles by people with creative, challenging, or futurizing ideas, and draw upon relevant authors from the broader community and from differing disiplines. Overall, less sameness and familiar platitudes, and more creative questioning, challenging dialogue, and variety of perspective and format. Include more "human interest" and inspirational stories/articles, profiles of faculty and staff and their opinions on relevant/controversial issues.

[577]  Less stress on the Supe's opinions More stress on member opinions

[578]  1. It would be nice if you required class scribes to meet their deadlines for Assembly and there was some penalty for repeated failure i.e. relief of duties. I enjoy getting Assembly and read it in detail. It is very disappointing if there no column for my class (which is a common event). 2. Send more short letters with "newsy" information and as part fo these letters make it easy for people to stay in touch with classmates by enclosing information about how to get updated addresses/phone numbers from your files. The key is making it easy! 3. I have long felt that AOG has, in the past, been an exclusive club run by "old guys" for "old guys" and has tended to neglect the younger grads and the people in civilian life. AOG should consider having more material written for younger grads and civilians. The goal is to be as inclusive as possible. I also think it would be nice to hear what cadets are thinking about. Is there still a Pointer publication? Is it still mildly irreverant (in a positive way)? What are cadets saying about their experiences in that forum?

[579]  e-mail updates

[580]  Sites such as this survey.

[581]  regularly publish list of email addresses for AOG staff

[582]  I have trouble with AOG direction and credibility. I'm not sure I want any more communications from AOG.....

[583]  Somehow I have dropped off the list. I would like to ew my subscription to the Assembly and continue to receive the catalogue.

[584]  Provide explanation of expected communications at beginning of each year and a summary at the end--ie tell them what you'll tell them, tell them, then tell them what you told them

[585]  I am not overly satisfied with my communications with AOG, but then I have not exerted myself to maintain contact with AOG. I will say if the "Assembly" is AOG's primary means of reaching graduates, the "Assembly" is too slow and really fails to target AOG message effectively. I'm sure most grads look at their class column, then, if they later get the urge, read the rest of the magazine. At least that has been my experience.

[586]  Incresed usse of e-mail

[587]  I have not given the matter sufficient thought to express an opinion

[588]  I like the email capability that you appear to be working on!

[589]  Use west-point.org for offical news (in addition to the Assembly and other public forums)

[590]  On line interactive discussion grps etc; this survey is winderful idea

[591]  While I am proud to have gone to West Point, highly appreciative of what it did for me, and have generally been a financial supporter, much of what goes on with AOG remains a mystery or is largely irrelevant to me. I don't know why exactly but I've never really gotten interested or even know about the AOG programs. My interest largely centers on my class activities, especially my company, and the local organization. Ironically I work much more closely with the AF Academy where I have been a visiting faculty member, have worked with faculty doing summer research here with me, and have helped organize summer research projects for their civil engineering cadtes. I just never seem to have gotten similarly involved in USMA requirements and actually am largely ignorant of them.

[592]  Continued internet and web page support. Specifically classmates current addresses.

[593]  Fishburne and Louks are the best part of AOG

[594]  AOG should have frequent NON-FUNDRAISING communications via mail and email. All we seem to get is stuff that says "buy this", "contribute to this", "go on this trip". AOG needs to communicate with graduates independently of the USMA administration. There are major problems at USMA and all AOG seems to do is raise money, build things, and say "everything is great".

[595]  Online, searchable database of Graduates based on location, grad year, type of work, etc...

[596]  Continue to expand the use of electronic communication. It is fast, efficient and cost effective.

[597]  In the process of becoming acquainted with internet

[598]  In the process of becoming acquainted with internet

[599]  Establish newsletter "What's going on at WP" and distribute updates thru West Point. Org

[600]  for some reason I have never felt close to the AOG and that I am well represented. This might be as much my fault as that of AOG. It does not appear to me that the AOG represents the graduates as much as it represents those currently at USMA

[601]  list server for e-mail distributions

[602]  More electronic communications would make keeping updated more simple.

[603]  I'm not clear regarding AOG's electronic communications strategy and infrastructure. Seems there are several "AOG-related" websites and a bunch of email distro lists. What is the structure supposed to look like? Where do we go for USMA specific info? Class info? personal info? If you could make that information clear, it would be helpful.

[604]  More contact with local socities (especially those away from the DC area and other metro hubs). The 'word' needs to pas from the leaders through socities--use these as distributers. If this is followed, soon these local operations will gather strength and a following. Grads will look to their society FIRST.

[605]  Would like to see if there are ways to help. Haven't found them listed anywhere or found an easy way to ID what to do.

[606]  email

[607]  Don't know yet haven't given it much thought.

[608]  Overall things are rather good, but spotty. Some people return messages quickly, others not at all, which is frustarting when answers are needed.

[609]  Use the internet to include graduates in decision making processes.

[610]  Internet has been a big help for the AOG in their communicating with members of the association. It is more current news rather than having to wait for the Assembly magazine.

[611]  Provide Assembly on subscription basis such that one does not receive back-issues if he subscribes "late" in the publishing year. This frustrating enough to cause me never to subscribe again.

[612]  More use of email. I often forget to check the AOG web site for months. Alerts related to my class or other items of interest would be valuable. Don't worry about overload; I have a delete key.

[613]  For graduates that are first entering the civilian work force, I found the Academy Business Guide to be very helpful. This information should be published more prominantly. It is a helpful tool for anyone looking to make a transition in civilian life.

[614]  Direct Email to those interested

[615]  Proactive honesty

[616]  A more active dissemination of graduate information.

[617]  I would like to have a POC identified with phone number, e-mail etc to contact for visits to USMA. I thing grads need a representative point of contact to assist in parking, parade tickets, hotel rooms etc.

[618]  Complete explanation of the Regular Commission issue, eg who are the Congressional villains who are so biased against USMA? The AOG is pussy-footing on this.

[619]  1. Coordinate more frequently and completely with wp.org, to update and compare each other's lists of the email addresses of graduates and former cadets. 2. Include the graduate's cadet company with his or her email address. 3. Enable a person searching for an email address to retrieve it directly, instead of having to send an email thru AOG. To meet your concerns about privacy, either a) require the listee to request that his address be blocked (my preference) or b) permit the addressee to indicate that his address may be made "public". 4. General comment re privacy: The postal addresses of graduates are already public, via the Register of Graduates; to impose a privacy restriction on email addresses is overkill, in my opinion.

[620]  Use the internet. It's fast, inexpensive, and is widely used by many graduates.

[621]  I am really not interested until, the AOG and the AAA get their collective fund raising act together. The current level of "BS" from these sources in beyond belief.

[622]  Accelerate data support for Class Fundraising Committees,especially if you are going to ask for 5% of the contributions for yourselves.

[623]  Sorry,I have not viewed the AOG as a friend of any graduate, but rather as an extension of the Supe and the DoA/DoD. I realize this perception is dated but it is an honest one and a perception that I see the AOG struggling to correct. I believe this struggle will be a success and want to suport it as best I can, but am frustrated at the "old guard" that still seems to control the too close association among the Supe, AOG and active military establishment. Someway or another the AOG leadership needs to clean house and establish a new association thst will let a bit of light shine into an organization that represents the finest this country has to offer. The stature of USMA graduates has declined in my opinion not because there was or is cause but because there was no and still may be no independent association willing to stand up and reprsent our interests and more importantly the interest of the young and future graduate. If I am not mistaken, the Navy and the AirForce academy graduates enjoy this type of support,we should too. There is a larger playing field than providing funds from the graduates for facilities, though this is a noble cause---total support from an organization that recognizes the uniqueness of the graduates of the USMA, their daily sacrifices and the sacrifices of their families. The dedication of an alumni organizatioin independent of all ties that lobbies congress the White House and the DoD for fair and equitable treatment not just on career issues but on health care, housing education, assurance of a long term career and the appropriate compensation are a good starting point.

[624]  My sense is that the AOG is constrained from acting as an alumni association in the traditional sense. E.g.,in the past, it took many years to convince AOG that grads leaving the Service were worth helping finding a civilian career. Tsk. Tsk.

[625]  Use E-Mail

[626]  Frankly, I get so much email that it is hard to try to keep track of just what West Point connections I have subscribed to. For example, I know I do get WP-ORG material, but I am not sure just what if anything I gert from AOG.

[627]  Emphasize written & electronic communication updates

[628]  Internet is OK.

[629]  The '88 class web page is terrible. It isn't useful so I rarely look at it anymore. Most frustrating is I have submitted my e-mail address to the homepage and AOG about 4 times with no success in having it posted on my class page.

[630]  Process should be more open; internet should provide the opportunity to get specific feedback (for AOG and USMA) on specific issues that effect future of USMA.

[631]  Email would be nice.

[632]  The AOG is a great organization and provides me everything I need to stay up on West Point except that personal interaction with my classmates. As I stated above, I'm in an unusual situation of not having any free time to do some of the West Point oriented things I want to and should. I've vowed to be out of this predicament by the time I'm 70!!!

[633]  This is not new, but somehow local chapters need to be the link between grads and the AOG. Ask the chapter leaders how AOG could help them.

[634]  AOG should keep graduates more informed on USMA mission related issues.

[635]  Increase use of email to distribute additional information such as Board of Trustee electrions and information.

[636]  Be open with membership; i.e. the "Dan Willson" matter has festered for nearly 4 years without being mentioned to the membership. Why? WHEN will we hear about it? After a judgment or settlement?

[637]  AOG telephone extensions in the Assembly

[638]  Displays at Founder's Days Informational mass mailing telling grads of electronic services.

[639]  Notify graduates by postal mail of the existance of the AOG on the web. Also provide addresses to the web site and to this survey. I found out about this survey and the AOG site by accident.

[640]  AOG could do much more for grads. While AOG actively seeks financial support from grads,AOG does not reach out to "returning" grads. Example: I generally go to one Army football game each year. While I am there, I feel as if there is no difference between me and non-grads in attendance. It would seem to me that, since I purchased personal use tickets, the AOG would insert a note in the envelope with some grad oriented offer such as a cup of coffee with other grads, or something. Another example. I have no idea of how a grad gets to sit in the reviewing stand at game day parades. One would think that the AOG would go out of its way to insure that any grad returning for a football game is afforded the opportunity to sit in the reviewing stand with friends he /she may have brought to the game. The AOG needs to put much more effort into catering to grads, whether they be recent graduates or ripe old ones. (The young grad will someday be a senior, possible in a position to be very generous to WP - the AOG should create a relationship with the grad early on to foster a closeness which may benefit WP in the long run. Said another way, if I did not subscribe to the Assembly, other than letters encouraging me to remember WP in my will, I would not hear from the AOG at all. Were I running the AOG, it's goal would be to make personal contact with every grad who visits WP. Anything less would be failure.

[641]  Send out all information on e-mail to all possible rather than selectively to various groups

[642]  Develop a mentoring program w/ new cadets and young officers.