This study investigates causal relationships among alumni's valuation of university education, gains derived from it, identity formation, identity dimensions in a VUCA world, and their sense of reciprocity or engagement. Despite extensive literature on philanthropy, the influence of education valuation and identity formation on engagement remains underexplored. Understanding these antecedents is crucial for universities fostering lasting relationships and resource generation. The research is theoretically underpinned by Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985), Learning Gains concepts, Luyckx's Theory of Identity Formation (Luyckx et al., e.g., 2005), Social Identity Theory (Turner & Tajfel, 1986), and Social Exchange Theory (Homans, 1961). Employing a quantitative descriptive, cross-sectional survey design, this study utilized Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze data from a Philippine Public University System (PUP) graduates (2004-2019). The empirically verified causal model showed a good fit (GoF = 0.475), explaining 47.5% of variance in identity and reciprocity. Aspirations (β=0.23, ρ < 0.01), perceived gains (β=0.40, ρ < 0.01), and success in aspirations (β=0.32, ρ < 0.01) significantly predicted Alumni Identity Formation Stage (AIFS). Aspirations and perceived gains strongly predicted AIFS (R = 0.81), but education's instrumentality to aspiration attainment was not significantly related. All four alumni identity dimensions moderately to strongly associated with AIFS (0.56 ≤ β ≤ 0.61). However, findings suggest a weak association between identity traits and sense of reciprocity, and subsequently, with behavioral engagement.

Authors:
Honesto Camino, Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Unisan, Quezon Branch, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Honesto O. Camino, MA, RN, LPT, RPm - Professor III at Polytechnic University of the Philippines specializing in psychology, health, and mathematical modeling. Currently researching psychological agility.

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