£9,000 per year per student in student fees not enough for them?
The first time I was pursued for a donation by my former univeristy, it was for the educationally vital purpose of procuring a commemorative sundial, or possibly birdbath - the exact details have faded from my memory, like most of my undergraduate learning.
Their next communication was returned with "not known at this address" and I have been untroubled since.
Most of this alma-mater business seems to be payback to the institution concerned for putting you in proximity with the people who in future life would value your personal connection above your actual ability.