The 2035 Strategic Plan, Our Enduring Link, calls upon us to deepen our commitment to one another and to West Point—strengthen the bonds that connect us and increase the impact we can achieve together. Our plan reflects our shared belief that the Long Gray Line is not just a legacy, but a living and thriving network of service, leadership, and lifelong connections.
2035 Strategic Plan
Our Enduring Link: Inspired by Generations. Built for You.
Strengthening the links that connect us and increasing the we can have together.
Our Enduring Link Strategic Plan 2035
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Dear Fellow Graduates,
As we chart our course for the next decade, I am proud to share a vision rooted in our shared experience as graduates of the United States Military Academy. The 2035 Strategic Plan, Our Enduring Link , calls upon us to deepen our commitment to one another and to West Point—strengthen the bonds that connect us and increase the impact we can achieve together. Our plan reflects our shared belief that the Long Gray Line is not just a legacy, but a living and thriving network of service, leadership, and lifelong connections. At the heart of this plan exists a simple but powerful truth: connection strengthens meaning and impact. Our approach ensures that the graduate remains at the forefront of our decision-making, and understanding your needs and your preferences enables us to deliver relevant, impactful opportunities for engagement. Whether through lifelong friendships, professional collaboration, or shared moments of reflection at our Rockbound Highland Home, the bonds we forge as cadets and graduates, embedded firmly in Duty, Honor, and Country, provide a catalyst for service and the continued strengthening of our nation. This plan builds upon those bonds, expanding connections and deepening our support for the Academy and each other. Together, through our support to the Margin of Excellence, we can enhance the unique environment of the Academy and the experience shared by the Corps of Cadets as they graduate and grip hands with the ever strengthening Long Gray Line. We are guided by the belief that service never ends—it evolves. Through this strategy we will support graduates in the Moments that Matter most and inspire the next generation of West Point graduates. We root our efforts in trust, respect, and a shared sense of purpose. This plan is Inspired by Generations and Built for You! Thank you for your continued dedication to our alma mater and to each other. Together, we will ensure that our legacy of service and leadership endures for generations to come and that your Association continues to meet the needs of West Point and the Long Gray Line.
Serving West Point and the Long Gray Line. Grip Hands! Go Army! Beat Navy!
Mark D. Bieger ’91 Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired) President & CEO West Point Association of Graduates
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Our Enduring Link Strategic Plan 2035
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Contents
The Link Plan
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Your Association’s Purpose, Mission, and Guiding Principles Graduate-Centered Design—Our Shared Journey
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Vision and Action The Link Plan Goals
Goal 1 | A Stronger Academy Goal 2 | Graduate-Centered Focus
Goal 3 | Your Association’s Dynamic Future The Link Plan Implementation and Assessment
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Inspired by Generations . Built for You .
The Link Plan
Over the past five years, the 2025 Strategic Plan— Unlocking the Power of the Long Gray Line —expanded the reach and impact of our Association. That plan centered on human-centered design, strengthened alumni services, elevated communications and digital engagement, deepened our use of data, explored new partnership opportunities in the Hudson Valley, and launched the West Point Ready Campaign. These efforts helped modernize how we serve the Long Gray Line and reinforced our commitment to connection, service, and innovation. We renewed our strategy in a rapidly shifting environment. The post-pandemic landscape, the close of two decades of war, evolving socio-political dynamics, advances in artificial intelligence, and escalating cyber threats have reshaped the expectations and needs of our graduates. Despite these challenges, our community has shown resilience—achieving strong engagement, fundraising, and investment performance that set a solid foundation for the future. Guided by volunteer leaders, graduates, industry experts, and WPAOG staff, we conducted a comprehensive and collaborative strategy review, informed by risk management and aligned with USMA’s Strategy and Campaign Plan.
The result is Our Enduring Link —a forward-looking 2035 Strategic Plan rooted in the present and built to shape the future. At its core is a reaffirmed mission to serve West Point and the Long Gray Line and a vision to be the most highly connected alumni body in the world. We validated the strength of our existing framework: three mission-driven goals supported by priorities in engagement, experience, philanthropy, and partnership, all anchored in trust. Most importantly, we identified seven high-impact initiatives (see page 15) that will guide our work over the next decade. The 2035 Strategic Plan places graduates at the center of every decision. Grounded in your feedback, needs, and aspirations, it reflects the ethos of service, the culture of philanthropy, and the lifelong relationships that define our lineage. Inspired by generations and built for you, this plan is a living document—one we will continually assess, refine, and strengthen to ensure every resource delivers the greatest return and impact for the Academy and its graduates.
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The Link Plan is designed to deliver graduate-centered in the Moments that Matter. experiences
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Inspired by Generations . Built for You .
Your Association’s Purpose
Established in 1869, your Association was organized to promote social interaction among graduates and to cherish memories of days at West Point. Today, WPAOG’s mission is to serve West Point and the Long Gray Line, and our vision is to be the most highly connected alumni body in the world. For over 156 years, your Association has worked to support and improve the Academy and to provide service and connection to its graduates. In recent years, we have improved professionally and grown into an organization of the highest standards, greatest reach, and most significant impact.
MISSION
VISION
To serve West Point and the Long Gray Line.
To be the most highly connected alumni body in the world.
The Long Gray Line’s beautiful alumni center, Herbert Hall, is located at West Point, where WPAOG is fortunate to have cooperative relationships with USMA’s leadership, staff, and faculty, as well as local officials in the Hudson Valley and the Army West Point Athletic Association. A superb cohort of alumni volunteers lead more than 80 active USMA Classes and more than 140 independent West Point Societies. This network of graduates is connected by shared experience and service and remains highly connected to their alma mater, and most important, to each other. WPAOG has the unique privilege to serve in a manner that respects our traditions and history and pursues opportunity, initiative, and innovation as we look to the future.
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We are guided by the belief that service never ends .
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Your Association’s Mission
Serving
We serve West Point by strengthening the connection between the Academy and the broader West Point community. Our efforts are directly aligned and in support of the Academy’s mission to develop leaders of character prepared to serve the nation. Through trusted partnerships and a shared commitment to excellence, we unite alumni, donors, and stakeholders in support of the Academy’s academic, physical, military, and character programs. Together, we advance the Academy’s mission by providing the Margin of Excellence opportunities and infrastructure enhancements otherwise not provided. Our efforts help sustain and elevate the cadet experience to reinforce West Point’s role as the nation’s preeminent leader development institution. Together, we drive progress, deepen engagement, and ensure that the Academy continues to thrive for generations to come. West Point
CONNECTION
PARTNERSHIP
PHILANTHROPY
Foster relationships between graduates, cadets, and the Academy to maintain traditions and empower the next generation.
Serve as a trusted and valued partner with the Academy and organizations who are aligned with a shared vision.
Provide resources to help ensure that West Point has the Margin of Excellence programs to thrive for generations to come and the sustainability for generations to come.
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Serving
The Long Gray Line We serve the Long Gray Line by fostering lifelong connection, meaningful engagement, and memorable experiences that honor the shared journey of West Point graduates. From commissioning, a lifetime of military and civilian service, to retirement and every milestone in between, we focus on the Moments that Matter—ensuring graduates feel supported, celebrated, and deeply connected to one another and the Academy. With human- centered design at our core, we strengthen the bonds that define the Long Gray Line and empower its continued support to the nation. Through our graduate-focused approach, we will deliver relevant, personalized, and impactful experiences. Through listening, feedback, interaction, and connections, we are constantly innovating and adapting to meet the needs of the Long Gray Line.
CONNECTION
ENGAGEMENT
EXPERIENCE
Provide the hub where and how graduates come together through our network and our systems.
Develop meaningful programs that inspire pride, deepen commitment, and create a sense of belonging for our graduates.
Deliver excellence with care, respect, and empathy during a graduate’s lifelong journey.
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is the foundation
for all we do.
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Your Association’s Guiding Principles
4. Commitment to Service and Stewardship We are dedicated to serving West Point and its graduates with care and purpose—stewarding resources, relationships, and traditions to empower future generations and preserve the legacy of the Long Gray Line. 5. Partnership for Advancement We unite graduates, cadets, donors, and stakeholders in collaborative efforts that elevate the Academy’s mission, enrich the cadet experience, and revitalize surrounding communities.
Trust is the foundation for all we do. We unite graduates, cadets, donors, and stakeholders in collaborative efforts that elevate the Academy’s mission, enrich the cadet experience, and revitalize surrounding communities. 1. Professional Excellence We uphold the highest standards in all we do—delivering exceptional service, leadership, and outcomes that reflect the values of the Long Gray Line and the mission of West Point. Excellence is not just a goal; it is our baseline. 2. Connection with Purpose We foster enduring relationships among graduates, the Academy, and the Association—anchored in trust and shared experience—to strengthen the Long Gray Line and amplify its impact on the nation. 3. Graduate-Centered Design We design experiences, programs, and services around the real needs and life stages of our graduates. This human-centered approach ensures relevance, personalization, and impact at the Moments that Matter most.
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Ensuring our legacy of service and leadership endures for
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Graduate-Centered Design—Our Shared Journey
The culture of graduate-centered design, with our graduates always in the forefront, is fully embedded in the daily activities and experiences provided by the Association. Graduates recognize that WPAOG is a trusted and respected resource to provide relevant and personalized engagement. We are your link in the Moments that Matter: life transitions, visits to West Point, and other key times when the Long Gray Line and cadets engage with each other.
Pre-Reception
Cadet
Serving
Civilian Life
Legacy
CADET
ALUMNI PARTICIPATION
Transition
Navigating Early Army Career
Opportunity
Memorializing
Finding My Next Mission
Homecoming
First Impression of Long Gray Line
ALUMNI PAYING IT FORWARD TO FUTURE CADETS
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Vision and Action
These seven high-impact initiatives will guide our work over the next decade. The Link Plan places graduates at the center of every decision. Rooted in your feedback, needs, and aspirations, it reflects the spirit of service, the culture of philanthropy, and the connections that define the Long Gray Line.
Delivering World-Class Graduate Services in the Moments that Matter. Ensures graduates receive timely, personalized support during key life transitions and milestones.
Employing Tailored and Interactive Communications. Enhances engagement and relevance by delivering information that resonates with each graduate’s interests and needs.
Expanding Young Grad Engagement. Builds lifelong loyalty and connection by supporting graduates early in their Long Gray Line journey and fostering active participation.
Celebrating Lifetimes of Service to the Nation in and out of Uniform. Inspires pride and strengthens community by honoring diverse contributions and encouraging continued service.
Leveraging a Modern Digital Engagement and Experience. Connects graduates globally and streamlines access to resources, making interactions seamless and impactful.
Transforming the Physical Environment for Graduates…on and off West Point. Deepens the sense of belonging and tradition by improving experiences for graduates, cadets, and families.
Activating the Convening Power for Innovation, Leadership, and Service. Drives progress and amplifies impact by bringing together graduates to collaborate, lead, and serve in new and meaningful ways.
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Vision and Action
DELIVERING WORLD-CLASS GRADUATE SERVICES IN THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER
EMPLOYING TAILORED AND INTERACTIVE COMMUNICATIONS
Purpose WPAOG strengthens the lifelong connection between graduates and the Academy by delivering meaningful, graduate-centered experiences at every stage of the journey. From commissioning through retirement, WPAOG provides seamless support during life transitions, milestones, and visits to West Point. Through improved technology, refined communications, and feedback-driven enhancements, the Association ensures that every interaction—whether online or in person—reflects care, efficiency, and the shared spirit of the Long Gray Line. Impact WPAOG’s comprehensive services—ranging from reunions, society administration, and career support to memorial and family care—are designed to meet graduates where they are and when they need it most. By integrating platforms like Sallyport, expanding professional outreach, and creating volunteer pathways, the Association delivers a personalized, world-class
Purpose Tailored and active communications are essential for building meaningful relationships and driving engagement within the graduate community. By delivering information that is relevant to every grad’s interests, career stage, and life circumstance, the Association ensures that every graduate feels valued, connected, and supported. Interactive channels and personalized outreach foster a sense of connection, making it easier for alumni to access resources, participate in events, and contribute to the Long Gray Line. As we strengthen these bonds, we unlock new opportunities for service, leadership, and innovation, amplifying the positive impact of the Long Gray Line on West Point and the world. Impact The value of these communications lies not only in their relevance but also in their ability to facilitate honest dialogue. When graduates are invited to share feedback, ask questions, and engage in open conversations, it creates a culture of transparency and mutual respect. This two-way communication allows the Association to better understand the evolving needs of its members and to adapt programs and services accordingly. Ultimately, trust is the foundation of all successful engagement. By consistently providing clear, honest, and responsive communications, the Association builds credibility and strengthens the bonds of trust among graduates.
experience. The result is a connected, empowered alumni community that feels valued and supported through every moment that matters.
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YOUNG GRAD ENGAGEMENT
CELEBRATING SERVICE
Purpose Celebrating service—both in and out of uniform—is at the heart of WPAOG’s mission. The Association recognizes and honors the diverse ways graduates contribute to their communities, the nation, and the world, whether through military service, civilian leadership, or a lifetime of volunteerism. WPAOG invests in programs that highlight exceptional service and will develop new initiatives designed to celebrate and support graduates in all fields and stages of life. Impact Celebrating service among graduates means fostering a culture where giving back is valued and supported. WPAOG provides opportunities for graduates to mentor, volunteer, and share expertise, strengthening the bonds of the Long Gray Line and amplifying the impact of West Point’s values beyond the Academy. Through tailored communications, professional engagement, and innovative platforms, the Association inspires graduates to remain active contributors—serving others, leading with integrity, and embodying the spirit of Duty, Honor, and Country throughout their lives.
Purpose Engaging young graduates is vital to sustaining the vitality, leadership, and continuity of the Long Gray Line. As early-career graduates step from cadet life into service, they bring fresh energy and perspectives that strengthen the West Point community. WPAOG’s young graduate strategy builds lifelong loyalty by meeting grads where they are—professionally, personally, and geographically—through initiatives that combine service, connection, and mentorship. National Volunteer Days and service-integrated roadshows foster purpose-driven engagement, while milestone reunions and promotion celebrations create meaningful touchpoints in the first two decades after commissioning. Together, these experiences form a continuum of belonging that reinforces West Point’s enduring values of Duty, Honor, and Country. Impact Innovative programs, such as Young Grad regional conferences, grad-owned venue partnerships, and parent engagement networks, extend the Academy’s reach beyond West Point, strengthening local and digital communities. Through low-cost, lifestyle-relevant events, storytelling campaigns, and data-driven outreach, WPAOG ensures every graduate and family can connect, contribute, and lead within a supportive alumni ecosystem. These efforts not only enhance participation and mentorship but also amplify West Point’s presence in communities nationwide. By investing early in engagement, WPAOG cultivates a generation of graduates who carry forward the Academy’s legacy with pride, purpose, and impact.
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Vision and Action
built through professional design, robust security measures, and transparent communication. Users must feel confident that their data is protected and that the organization is committed to safeguarding their privacy. Impact Investing in a first-class user experience is not just about aesthetics or convenience— it is about empowering the WPAOG community to thrive. By making every interaction meaningful, efficient, and secure, the digital platform becomes a catalyst for lifelong engagement, shared achievement, and enduring connection. TRANSFORMING THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT FOR GRADUATES…ON AND OFF WEST POINT Purpose Through a collaborative partnership among the Village of Highland Falls, West Point, Orange County, and the State of New York, WPAOG leads a unified effort to modernize infrastructure, strengthen defense partnerships, and advance public–private development. Within 10 years, Highland Falls will stand as a model of smart, resilient, and mission-aligned revitalization—driven by the Hudson Valley Program’s focused commitment to responsible, sustainable growth. Impact On West Point, the Association will create a must-visit destination at its alumni center. Enhancing the building that was made possible by graduates in 1993, Herbert Hall will become a portal for graduates and their families to see and feel the past, present, and future of the Long Gray Line. This destination will provide gathering space and room for quiet conversations; ample retail, food and
LEVERAGING A MODERN DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT AND EXPERIENCE
Purpose The WPAOG digital experience is more than just a technological platform— it is the connective tissue that unites the Long Gray Line across generations, geographies, and interests. By meeting graduates, parents, and societies wherever they are and whenever they need support, the digital experience becomes a living bridge to the Academy and to each other. • Strengthening Connections and Community. The digital platform is designed to reinforce existing relationships, rekindle past connections, and foster new ones. A seamless, intuitive interface ensures that every member of the community can easily engage, collaborate, and contribute, regardless of location or background. By evolving with the needs of graduates, the platform remains relevant and vital, supporting lifelong engagement and a sense of belonging. • Driving Engagement and Value. A superior user experience increases alumni engagement with WPAOG services, events, and resources. When users can quickly find what they need and complete tasks efficiently, they are more likely to return, participate, and advocate for the organization. Enhanced connectivity across the alumni network unlocks new opportunities for mentorship, career advancement, and shared purpose. • Ensuring Security and Trust. WPAOG’s information technology programs, systems, and policies are the backbone of a secure, reliable digital environment. Trust is
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Impact By leveraging its existing innovation infrastructure (i.e., West Point Werx) alongside its operational military expertise, academic leadership, and access to key Army and industry partners, West Point can establish itself as a premier convener on select defense topics aligned to the Academy’s distinctive strengths and national security priorities. • Convene stakeholders on topics that are aligned to national security priorities: counter UAS, human-machine learning, resilient C2 in contested environments, advanced manufacturing, and leader development. • Convert partnerships across convener of industry, DoD, and finance leaders into long-term symbiotic relationships that benefit cadets and faculty.
beverage; and the environment to connect with other graduates and their families. Herbert Alumni Center will be one of the very best in the nation for sharing time, experience, and engagement. At the center of it all, the West Point Visitors Center will serve as the anchor— a dynamic regional hub connecting the U.S. Military Academy, the Innovation Hub, the Village’s historic Main Street, and a revitalized waterfront. Beneath its walkable downtown and scenic riverfront lies a completely modernized network of water, sewer, gas, and power systems built to support responsible mixed-use growth for generations. Through coordinated partnerships, the marina, transportation system, and hotel and conference center will link visitors, residents, and West Point professionals in a seamless, self-sustained ecosystem of commerce, learning, and community. Together, these projects will transform Highland Falls into a gateway where the character of a small Hudson Valley village meets the innovation and global reach of the U.S. Military Academy.
ACTIVATING THE CONVENING POWER FOR INNOVATION, LEADERSHIP, AND SERVICE
Purpose In an era of renewed great power competition, rapid advances in defense technology, and active global conflicts, there is a growing appetite across government, academia, and industry to convene around national security innovation. Leading institutions (e.g., Stanford’s Gordian Knot Center, MIT Lincoln Labs, DIU’s Defense Tech Connect) are drawing attention for their ability to bring together technologists, military leaders, and policy experts.
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The Link Plan Goals
Goal 1 | A Stronger Academy Drive Participation and Expand Philanthropy Your Association is actively advancing West Point’s mission through the public phase of the largest comprehensive campaign in our history. West Point Ready ’s (WPR) bold, seven- year effort enhances the Margin of Excellence for USMA’s academic, physical, military, and character pillars, as well as WPAOG’s own initiatives. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our graduates, we are on track to meet and exceed our $600M goal by December 2027. Post WPR, we look to build on this momentum and work with the Academy on future priorities as part of a new campaign. Through alumni engagement, we continue to inspire cadets to become active members of the Long Gray Line. We also provide professional services to the Academy—from investment and construction management to strategic support—while also working on revitalizing the communities surrounding West Point by way of reinforcing our enduring commitment to the Academy’s future.
Goal 2 | Graduate-Centered Focus Design and Deliver Relevant and Meaningful Programs
Goal 3 | Your Association’s Dynamic Future Empower Excellence through People, Service, and Investment Your Association actively safeguards the legacy and future of the Long Gray Line by stewarding its financial assets and resources, data, records, infrastructure, and reputation with precision and care. We are embracing new technologies and ensuring our programs and services adapt to the dynamic needs of our graduates. We are strengthening our performance assessment and risk management practices, advancing our data analytics capabilities, and reenvisioning the alumni center to better serve our community. At the same time, we are investing in the professional growth of our management and staff, preserving the rich history of the Long Gray Line, and reinforcing our enduring commitment to each graduate. These efforts ensure that WPAOG remains resilient, forward- looking, and ready to meet the evolving needs of our graduates and the Academy.
Your Association is committed to delivering meaningful, graduate-centered engagement and experiences that serve the Long Gray Line. In the Link Plan, we focus on the Moments that Matter—key milestones, life transitions, visits to West Point, and other important times when graduates and cadets naturally turn to us for support. We are enhancing our technical services to empower volunteer leaders and refining our integrated suite of digital and print communications to ensure personalized, relevant engagement. By aligning our efforts through feedback and listening to hear and understand the real needs of our graduates, we aim to create lasting impacts and deepen our connections with those we serve.
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Goal 1 | A Stronger Academy Drive Participation and Expand Philanthropy
CONNECTION Foster relationships between graduates, cadets, and the Academy to maintain traditions and empower the next generation.
PARTNERSHIP Serve as a trusted and valued partner with the Academy and organizations who are aligned with a shared vision.
• Activate and Leverage the Association’s Power to Convene. Draw on the resources, expertise, and talent within the Long Gray Line to gather groups, corporations, and individuals for the benefit of West Point. This convening power can be mission-focused, in support of the Academy, or to the benefit of the Corps in impactful ways. Partner with USMA Innovation Hub and West Point Werx to create an innovation ecosystem on and off West Point. Serve as the Superintendent/Dean’s 501(c)(3) in public/private development of this initiative and related activities. • Support USMA with professional services. WPAOG has well-established capabilities to manage the design, construction, and maintenance of Margin of Excellence projects. WPAOG’s administrative and logistics services improve the efficiency of USMA activities, while relieving staff and faculty of administrative burdens. • Further embed CONNECT within the community to serve children in Highland Falls. CONNECT, the after-school education and experiential program, continues to provide great value to the community and significant results for the children. This program can serve as a beacon of partnership and service to the community.
• Support the Margin of Excellence. By donating to Margin of Excellence needs, alumni, parents, and friends make possible academic, physical, military, and character program enhancements beyond the government-funded core requirements of a Bachelor of Science degree and a second lieutenant’s commission. This Margin of Excellence is important to the recruitment, retention, and development of highly talented and motivated young men and women seeking to serve as leaders of character in the Army and beyond. Annually, WPAOG will seek to increase cash receipts and pledges, employing a combination of programs such as annual giving, parent giving, class giving, major giving, planned giving, and corporate and foundation grants. • Alumni Giving Percentage. Sustain an alumni giving percentage of at least 35% year over year with a growing graduate base. Aspire to reach 40% by 2035 thereby positioning WPAOG among the top three institutions of higher education in the country. • Inspire cadets to become lifelong, active members of the Long Gray Line. We know that alumni activities involving cadets deepen alumni affinity for West Point. The exposure to alumni, however, also goes further in that it provides cadets with opportunities to learn about the service and interconnectedness of West Point’s graduates.
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• Hudson Valley Program. WPAOG is fully engaged in pursuing a strategy to assist the revitalization of Highland Falls and other communities adjacent to West Point. Positioning Highland Falls as a thriving hub of opportunity and community by leading strategic partnerships that strengthen West Point’s alliance with the Hudson Valley to activate its full potential and transform the gateway to West Point.
• The West Point Endowment. By 2035, grow assets under WPAOG’s management from more than $700M (in 2025) to $1B+ to ensure the longtime viability of WPAOG and Margin of Excellence programs. • WPAOG Unrestricted Endowments. By 2035, grow the WPAOG’s unrestricted endowments from $100M to $200M in order to sustain the WPAOG’s operating capabilities, enhancing its ability to provide meaningful and effective programs and services to the Long Gray Line.
PHILANTHROPY Provide resources to help ensure that West Point has the Margin of Excellence programs to thrive for generations to come.
• Comprehensive Campaigns for West Point. Continuing through December 2027, conclude the $600M West Point Ready Campaign for West Point, achieving goals specified in the 2020 Campaign Plan including priorities such as the East Stands of Michie Stadium and the Redoubt, Gateway, and Overlook in the Cyber and Engineering Academic Center as well as the Superintendent’s Endowment, the Innovation Hub, and Academy Scholars. Position, plan, and begin subsequent Margin of Excellence campaign in concert with the Academy.
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Goal 2 | Graduate-Centered Focus Design and Deliver Relevant and Meaningful Programs
ENGAGEMENT Develop meaningful programs that inspire pride, deepen commitment, and create a sense of belonging for our graduates.
CONNECTION Provide the hub where and how graduates come together through our network and our systems.
• Celebrate Service. Celebrate constituents using current programs and through thoughtful deployment of designed initiatives that target additional areas of service to the nation. • Class Reunion 3.0. Improve and elevate the delivery of class reunions, tailored to the class and their desires. Already, reunions at West Point are truly memorable, and some of the best in the nation. The Association will continue to innovate, evolve, and partner with classes to provide an event that exceeds expectations and the interests of the returning grads and their families. • Facilitate alumni access to expertise and other resources within the Long Gray Line. Graduates have high expectations for the Long Gray Line’s network. Furthermore, an implied trust exists among graduates, and research indicates many grads might avail themselves of advice, expertise, and services from fellow graduates. • Deepen awareness of WPAOG and West Point. Communicate the purpose and relevance of WPAOG as well as the value of West Point for the nation. Use a variety of voices to share information, articulate purpose and impact, and build trust (e.g., CEO, Board Chair, Key Volunteers, Influencers).
• Professionalize Engagement Efforts. Professional alumni engagement is a strategic imperative that strengthens lifelong connections, fosters a vibrant community, and amplifies the impact of the institution. More than just maintaining contact, it involves designing and delivering meaningful experiences that resonate with graduates across all life stages—from commissioning to retirement. Through personalized outreach, volunteer opportunities, and tailored programming, professional engagement cultivates pride, deepens commitment, and reinforces the shared identity of the Long Gray Line. When executed with excellence, it becomes a catalyst for philanthropy, mentorship, and volunteerism—ensuring that alumni remain active contributors to the mission and legacy of West Point. • Young Graduate Engagement. Apply a comprehensive approach to connecting with and better serving our youngest graduates in the first 20 years of their careers. • Develop Tailored Communications. Leveraging data analytics, tailor selected communications to alumni based upon their demonstrated or likely interests. Personalize selected communications with individual alumni. Through data insights, engagement scoring, and mapping Moments that Matter/journey map to graduates, develop tailored communications that are relevant to individuals to increase participation, engagement, and volunteerism. Develop systems—
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• Digital Experience. Create a modern, digital system of platforms and services that enable efficient and effective access to information and connections, across the Association and the Long Gray Line. The digital experience connects our graduates across the globe, by class, interest, team, or company. It meets our graduates, parents, and societies where they are and when it’s needed. The digital experience ties us to the Academy and to each other socially and professionally. By reinforcing present connections, reinvigorating past ones, and building a purposeful network, it evolves with our graduates and their needs. Vital and virtual parts of the Long Gray Line, WPAOG information technology programs, systems, policies, and capabilities securely underpin the most connected organization in the world.
personnel, software, budget—to scale personalized outreach. Test and track metrics. Per channel and publication, define WPAOG information for all balanced with individual communication.
EXPERIENCE Deliver excellence with care, respect, and empathy during a graduate’s lifelong journey.
• Enhance graduate, parent, and cadet experiences to be more meaningful, exciting, and fun. Visits to West Point have deep meaning for returning graduates and their families. Whether a visit is at a time of high excitement or solemn reflection, WPAOG will seek to make constituent experiences at West Point memorable. Create an environment that encourages graduates to return to their RBHH by enhancing the amenities both on and off West Point and attract high caliber faculty, staff, and cadets. - Veterans Services. Create a robust, thriving community of Veteran Service Volunteers who enhance the transition experience for all graduates and support their families as needed. - Memorial Services Support. Continue WPAOG’s comprehensive support of families returning to West Point for memorial services. Improve integration of services such as memorial articles, assistance to Gold Star families, and memorial opportunities. Focus and enhance the Survivors Care Community. • Adapt services for volunteer leaders. WPAOG will provide volunteer leaders with technology platforms that make it easy for them to organize their Class, Society, Parent Club, or Shared Interest Group membership or activities.
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Goal 3 | Your Association’s Dynamic Future Empower Excellence through People, Service, and Investment
• Maintain effective risk management, compliance, and financial controls. WPAOG will steward the Long Gray Line’s financial assets and resources. Enterprise Risk Management will be a priority and will be regularly reviewed by the Board of Directors. Additionally, through annual external audits, WPAOG will continue to employ an effective system of planning and control, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax laws. These processes assure all stakeholders that WPAOG is properly managed and that WPAOG’s funds and those managed for USMA are applied as authorized. WPAOG intends to continue to receive clean annual audit reports.
EXCELLENCE Provide exceptional, professional, and responsive graduate-centered service.
• Manage the development of WPAOG’s professional staff. WPAOG will continue to recruit, develop, and retain highly talented professionals to ensure the continuity of WPAOG’s capabilities well into the future. WPAOG will develop talent and support retention through competitive benefits and pay, objective performance evaluations and rewards for excellence, professional development, and succession planning. Managers at all levels will continuously assess WPAOG’s corporate culture, workplace environment, and participation by all WPAOG teammates. • Assess mission performance. Providing for the future requires understanding the effectiveness of today’s services. We will use effective tools to support program decisions, gauging graduate delight at Moments that Matter, identifying unmet needs, and understanding engagement demographics. - Assess within the journey map framework. Develop and assess WPAOG’s performance to support graduates through designated Moments that Matter. Measure from the perspective of each department across WPAOG. - C ontinue to achieve the highest data governance standards. Deliver technical and resource expertise in the guidance, direction, and development of data collection, storage, analysis, utilization, and governance. Annually, invest in WPAOG’s data operations, systems, and training programs to achieve and maintain the highest industry standards, minimizing organizational risk and ensuring data is organized, accurate, and accessible for WPAOG operations.
CONNECTION Preserve and steward the legacy of the Long Gray Line.
• Welcome to Herbert Hall! Create a must-visit destination at West Point and enhance the information and amenities offered to graduates and guests visiting the alumni center. The objective is for visitors to understand the critical role the Association serves in supporting West Point and the Long Gray Line. Provide a space for connection and education. Creatively expand The Gift Shop’s product lines. • Steward gifts. Encourage donors to develop lifelong relationships with WPAOG; continue to develop WPAOG’s gift stewardship into a best-in-class program. • Preserve, organize, and display the service record of the Long Gray Line. Review WPAOG’s systems for recording and maintaining biographical information on West Point’s graduates.
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- Digitize the Long Gray Line’s Archives. Develop a master plan for the Long Gray Line’s historical records, i.e., the Register of Graduates, the WPAOG Library, the Cullum Files, Memorial Articles/TAPS, online memory pages, and the Memory Book. Preserve the history and legacy for generations to come, in a manner that is best for the graduate to navigate. - Interactive Long Gray Line. Determine the feasibility of an interactive Long Gray Line display, whereby biographical information on every graduate would be accessible via an interactive touch screen located at the alumni center, as well as online.
INNOVATION Integrate strategic foresight by encouraging new ideas and agile decision-making.
• Strengthen the human-centered design culture within the Association. Human-centered design is an approach that places the real needs, experiences, and aspirations of individuals—particularly graduates, staff, and stakeholders —at the core of strategic planning and organizational development. Within the context of the Link Plan, it ensures that programs, services, and communications are not only relevant and personalized but also impactful at the Moments that Matter most. By embedding empathy, feedback, and continuous engagement into the design process, human-centered design fosters trust, strengthens connections, and drives innovation. It will empower the Association to adapt dynamically, deliver meaningful experiences, and make data-informed decisions that reflect real impact in the Moments that Matter. • Continue to foster a culture of data-informed decision-making. WPAOG will support and encourage the growth of data-informed decision-making. Encourage decision support and insights across WPAOG through data analytics, modeling, predicting, reporting, and visualization. Train staff to mine for actionable insights within our data. Leverage the tools and methods of data analytics team to enhance the efficiency and the effectiveness of all WPAOG functions. • Activate AI across the Association. Establish an AI Tiger Team comprised of a cross-functional group of specialists assembled to further enhance WPAOG’s mission and goals using AI to enhance the efficiency and the effectiveness of specific WPAOG functions.
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Inspired by Generations . Built for You .
The Link Plan Implementation and Assessment
IMPLEMENTATION: FROM PLAN TO ACTION The most important aspect of strategy is implementation, assessment, and continuous improvement. The Association will execute this strategy with a deliberate approach, in constant assessment and looking for opportunities that may be present in the years ahead. Ultimately, our north star will remain our mission and vision and this strategy provides the framework for successful implementation. CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT: ESSENTIAL TO STRATEGIC SUCCESS Effective strategy is dynamic and requires ongoing evaluation, adaptation, and improvement. Continuous assessment ensures that strategy remains aligned with the organization’s mission and vision, responsive to change, and focused on meaningful outcomes. • Integrated and aligned: Strategic planning and assessment work together, ensuring evaluation directly informs objectives. • Data-driven: Reliable, objective data provides the foundation for credible assessment and evidence-based decision-making, focusing on metrics that matter most to the organization’s mission and goals.
• Performance-focused: Evaluate both the implementation and impact of strategies to ensure activities achieve intended results. • A ctionable insights: Assessment uncovers information that guides leadership and operational choices. • Continuous and automated: Ongoing, real-time evaluation—supported by KPIs, metrics, and automated systems—enables timely feedback and agile responses to changing circumstances. Expertly crafted KPIs and best-in-class tools allow at-a-glance monitoring of progress toward goals, while long-term data science initiatives reveal trends, future opportunities, and potential challenges. By embedding these principles into operations, the organization ensures its strategy remains effective, adaptive, and forward-looking. Continuous assessment leads to continuous improvement and forms the backbone of strategic success. By embedding evaluation into every aspect of operations, from alumni engagement to financial stewardship, the organization ensures that it remains effective, relevant, and resilient. As outlined in the Link Plan, this commitment to ongoing assessment empowers leaders to make informed decisions, measure progress, and adapt to the evolving needs of our graduates.
Our Enduring Link Strategic Plan 2035 Gripping Hands for the Next Chapter As we look to the future, the West Point Association of Graduates remains steadfast in its commitment to service, connection, and enduring impact. Guided by the values of Duty, Honor, and Country, we will continue to strengthen the bonds that connect graduates, cadets, and the Academy—fostering a vibrant network rooted in trust and shared purpose. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on graduate-centered design, we will empower each member of the Long Gray Line to lead, serve, and inspire in the Moments that Matter. Together, we will ensure that our legacy of service and leadership not only endures, but strengthens, increasing “from day to day” our collective impact on West Point, our communities, and our nation for generations to come. Inspired by generations and built for you, our enduring link is the foundation and direction for the future. Go Army! Beat Navy!
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We root our efforts in trust, respect, and a shared sense of
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P 845.446.1650 698 Mills Road, West Point, New York 10996 WestPointAOG.org
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