Yesterday’s Students, Today’s Professionals
Membership FOR ALUMNI
Reconnect with BPA and Give Back to the Next Generation
Your time in BPA helped shape who you are today. The Alumni Division provides a way for former members to stay connected, give back, and continue growing as leaders and professionals. By joining, you’ll inspire current students while strengthening your own professional network.
Start an Alumni Chapter
Graduates have the unique opportunity to establish alumni chapters in their schools or states. Use this step‑by‑step guide to organize, formalize, and charter your Alumni Chapter.
Become an Official Alumni Member
Before starting a new Alumni Chapter, all participants must first become official BPA Alumni members. Registration is quick and ensures your chapter is recognized within the national network.
Plan the First Organizational Meeting
Plan and Launch Your Alumni Community
Begin by choosing a convenient time and central location. Reach out to former classmates, advisors, instructors, and other potential members. Many schools can also provide a list of former business students. This initial gathering sets the foundation for your new chapter.
Hold the First Meeting
Define Purpose and Assign Temporary Roles
At this meeting, decide the purpose of the organization and select temporary officers such as a President and Secretary. Form a constitution committee tasked with drafting the document by a set date, and outline its core elements:
- Name of organization
- Objectives of the organization
- Membership requirements
- Officers or executive committee
- Meeting schedule (dates/frequency)
- Parliamentary authority
A steering committee can also start brainstorming ideas for social activities, fundraising, and professional development. Finally, confirm the date and location of the next meeting.
Committee Work Between Meetings
Draft Your Constitution and Plan Activities
Committees refine documents and develop an initial program plan before the next business meeting.
Constitution Committee
This group is responsible for drafting a new constitution, or adapting an existing one to fit the chapter’s needs. They should prepare copies to share for review and vote at the next business meeting.
Activities Committee
This committee develops ideas for social, networking, and community events. They also identify professional development topics and potential speakers to enrich the chapter’s offerings.
Finance Committee
The finance committee suggests fundraising opportunities and establishes a simple system for managing chapter funds.
Educational/Professional Committee
This group coordinates alumni involvement in conferences, student mentorship, and professional development. They explore ways alumni can give back through workshops, training sessions, and career readiness support.
Second and Subsequent Meetings
Finalize Structure and Launch Operations
Review and finalize the constitution, then elect permanent officers as outlined in it. Begin collecting dues if applicable and approve the initial activity plan. Establish ongoing committees such as:
- Membership & Recruitment
- Fundraising
- Social & Networking
- Educational & Conference Support
Apply for Your Charter
Submit Documents to BPA National
Formalize your Alumni Chapter by sending the required materials to the National Center. Submit the following:
- Copy of the approved constitution
- Application for chapter charter
- List of officers and chapter members
- Dues for any unpaid members (if required)
Send your completed materials to:
Business Professionals of America National Center
Attn: National Alumni Division
700 Morse Road, Suite 201
Columbus, OH 43214
Tip — Stay Connected and Visible
Publishing a calendar, sharing updates, and keeping member contact information current will help your chapter remain active and attract new members.
Support the Alumni Fund
Your donation helps sustain BPA programs and scholarships, ensuring future members have access to the same opportunities you enjoyed. By giving back, you help strengthen BPA for generations to come.