When the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, somebody is going to be in for a good deal.

            For the first time at San Jose State University, the Athletics Department, the Alumni Association and the Spartan Foundation are teaming up with one of the best offers to stay connected with the University as a recent graduate.

            Think of it as the New Alumni Program.

            A 2009, 2010, 2011 or 2012 San Jose State graduate can get a one-year membership in the Alumni Association and the Spartan Foundation and one season ticket for a general admission seat in Spartan Stadium to this year's Spartan home football games for $120.00.

            The general admission season ticket alone is a $120.00 value to see San Jose State take on UC Davis, Colorado State, Utah State, Texas State, BYU and Louisiana Tech. Regular memberships in the Spartan Foundation and the Alumni Association start at $100 and $20, respectively. And, that does not count all the discounts available to San Jose State Alumni Association members.

            "The Alumni Association is excited to be a partner in the New Alumni Program. It's a great way to show your Spartan Pride and gain access to helpful career resources that are important to recent grads," says Brian Bates, interim executive director of the Alumni Association.

            "We want to keep all San Jose State alums connected with the University as best as possible. Working together with the Alumni Association is one way for Spartan Athletics to assist with a graduate's transition into the real world," says deputy director of athletics John Poch. "When you take into account the last four graduating classes have a combined total of approximately 30,000 alums, we are looking forward to everyone of them becoming part of this exciting new venture that is a win-win."

            New Alumni Program members can pay the full fee of $120 at once or in two installments of $60.00 each between now and September 1. Pay by phone by calling the San Jose State Athletics Ticket Office at (408) 924-7589 or download the attached form, complete it and mail your payment to:

            The New Alumni Program
            c/o San Jose State University
            Spartan Foundation
            One Washington Square
            San Jose, CA 95112

            Call (408) 924-7589 with any questions on or comments for The New Alumni Program. It's a deal too good to pass up!