From the Nominator

The London School of Economics (LSE) introduced "Ask an Alum" in October 2022, an artificial intelligence-led digital networking tool that matches students and recent graduate questions with alumni who can answer. LSE Philanthropy and Global Engagement (PAGE) and LSE Careers led implementation, with a vision that AI would transform the student experience, scale engagement with the growing global alumni population, create targeted engagement for prospects and donors, and increase operational efficiency across LSE. With 12,500 students booking over 6,055 hours of career appointments annually and with a growing alumni community predicted to be at 300,000+ by 2030, LSE looked at new technology to scale engagement. Educate for Global Impact is at the forefront of LSE’s strategy, and Ask an Alum enables students to develop their networks with alumni across regions and sectors they otherwise may not have access to, gaining career advice and the opportunity to develop longer-term connections. With AI, LSE can support all students in this way, while engaging alumni with personalized volunteering asks relevant to their expertise. In the first year, Ask an Alum enabled almost 1,000 connections between students, recent graduates, and alumni. After reviewing the success of year one, LSE plans to continue to broaden use, meeting further school-wide need, fostering equality in opportunities, and driving impact.

From the Judges

The London School of Economics has taken a proactive approach to adopting artificial intelligence. By navigating new territories and adapting technology, the institution enhanced its engagement with its expanding community of alumni and students. The judges are excited to see the long-term outcomes and connections this initiative will foster.