case study: the continuum
Cistercian Prep School
Need: To renew and reinforce connections with alumni with the aim of increasing involvement and support for the school. To reduce the burden on an overworked staff.
Solution:
• The cover is designed to attract readership and foster pride in the school. Click here for a before-and-after comparison.
• The magazine includes two to three features ranging from 750 to 5,000 words. Subjects range from school history to exemplary programs, teachers, and students to current events (e.g., alumni who witnessed the attack on the World Trade Center). Every attempt is made to attract readership, from creative story angles to compelling layouts and large photos.
• The school news section includes three to five short stories, several boxed stories, plus a "Noteworthy" section that accommodates five to six briefs.
• Stewart Publications took over all editorial, design, and production duties in 2001, leaving the staff only one editorial burden: assembling alumni e-mails for the "Class Notes" section. The editorial board meets once to plan each edition and then Stewart works through the director of development. Proofs are e-mailed to each editorial board member.
Result: In the three years since Stewart Publications began producing the magazine, alumni donations increased 70 percent. (Note: Solicitation efforts also were improved during this time period.)

Each edition of The Continuum produced by Stewart Custom Publications is available on the web at: http://www.cistercian.org/school/publications/continuum/backissues.html