UC Riverside’s Alumni Roll Call is off to a strong start with an estimated 5,000 graduates taking part so far.

The campus is encouraging staff and faculty members who are alumni to join as well and help spread the word to fellow Highlanders. The campaign began Feb. 1 and will continue through March 15.

The Roll Call is UCR’s version of a census, seeking updated contact information and responses about what events, activities, career resources, and volunteer opportunities appeal to alumni. It takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Participants have a chance to win a variety of prizes including a $600 dining card to the Barn; other prizes include free hotel stays, museum tickets, and private VIP tours. Feb. 29 is the deadline to enter the sweepstakes. 

The survey is open to those with and without degrees, including all who completed a certificate course through UCR University Extension or attended UCR for at least three quarters.

“Their participation will ensure UCR has the most up-to-date and complete contact information and help us understand how they would like to get involved and help shape an exciting new slate of Highlander alumni events, networking opportunities, and career services,” said Jorge Ancona, assistant vice chancellor of Alumni Engagement.

The university wants to know where its alumni are and how they’re doing, he said. It will use the information to develop new alumni programs and refine how best to communicate with them. 

Ancona said the campus wants to make sure alumni — especially first-generation students — are aware of the range of resources and opportunities available to them long after they’ve finished their studies.

These include networking, career conferences, campus events, and job search tools. Alumni are also encouraged to meet with fellow Highlanders for social events, volunteering, or to advocate on behalf of UCR.

After the results are gathered and analyzed, the university will share its plans for future programming and services.

“UCR wants an engaged, life-long relationship with our alumni,” said Peter Hayashida, vice chancellor of University Advancement. “Only by asking for feedback can we create relevant activities, communications, and opportunities that promote pride in the university and enrich the lives of our graduates.”

All surveys received by Feb. 29 from U.S. residents will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of 10 prizes, such as tickets to San Diego Comic-Con International, private tours of the Los Angeles Zoo or Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and free hotel nights in Las Vegas, Palm Springs, or the Riverside Mission Inn.

More prize information, including official sweepstake rules, is available here.