In the letter to alumni, what type of appeal does the president use to encourage donations?

The appeal to prestige is effective in this context because it leverages the reputation and status associated with the institution. By emphasizing the importance of alumni contributions, the president taps into a sense of belonging and pride that alumni may feel toward their alma mater. This type of appeal resonates with alumni who want to be part of a prestigious community and may motivate them to donate in order to enhance the institution's reputation further.

Highlighting the institution's achievements, notable alumni, or its impact on society can evoke feelings of pride and reinforce the idea that contributing is not just a personal action, but one that supports and elevates the prestige of the college or university. Such an approach engages alumni on an emotional level, encouraging them to contribute to the legacy and future success of the institution.

Options that involve practical consequences, bandwagon effects, or a folksy approach do not align as closely with the notion of prestige, making it less likely for those options to be effective in this scenario.