FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Alumni Collection Merchandise

Explain the sizing on apparel.
We try to get as accurate as possible when explaining sizes in each item description. If the item uses men’s or women’s sizing only, we say so. “Unisex” sizing is listed if the item is appropriate for either sex. Others, such as plus sizing, junior’s sizing and youth sizing, are listed where necessary (and many times a sizing chart is also listed). If you have specific questions, please call our office at 877-478-2586 or 294-2648 (locally), and we can get detailed information from the vendor as needed.

Can I use my P.O. Box address on my order?
No. Most vendors ship via UPS or FedEx, so we need an actual street address on every order.

Is gift wrapping available?
Unfortunately, gift wrapping and gift messaging are not available.

What items do you inventory at the Alumni Center?
Inventoried items could vary, but typically we carry the following: Cat’s Meow pieces, Fossil watches, Reflections of Iowa State books, custom ISUAA ties and scarves, vintage calendars and ISC journal books, My Friends All Call Me Cy books, ISU wall calendars, alumni license plate frames, Bells of Iowa State CDs, Evolution of Cy key chains, money clips and bracelets, fight song gift bags, 150th playing cards, Cy’s Grills, and Bradd Brown prints (Campanile, Catt Hall and Marston Hall). These items can be purchased during regular office hours, but calling ahead is advised. During football season, we do stock some apparel options in house for selling at Cyclone Central tailgates.

Can I pick up my order to avoid shipping costs?
Yes, for inventoried and local items. You’ll have to place your order over the phone though; otherwise the online ordering system will charge you shipping. Simply call 877-478-2586 or 294-2648 (locally) and order.

Does it really take 2-3 weeks for me to get my order?
Shipping times vary per product. If a product (such as specialized orders or handmade items) takes longer than 2-3 weeks to arrive, we list that in the item description. Most times, orders are fulfilled before two weeks. Apparel typically doesn’t take that long, although embroidered items traditionally take longer. Please understand that the holidays are busy for merchandise orders, so plan ahead to allow for at least three weeks delivery time. (Note: merchandise orders are processed daily on weekdays. If you place an order on a Saturday, it won’t be processed until Monday.)

How do I apply a special promotional code to my order?
Most times, promotional codes are made up of letters and numbers, e.g. “MOM10.” Simply enter this code in the promotion code box, exactly as you see it (case sensitive) when you check out. The discount should be deducted from your order total. Please be aware that promotional codes have expiration dates. Feel free to call our office at 877-478-2586 or 294-2648 (locally) if you are having problems.

Why can’t I track my order online? Why don’t I receive a tracking number for my order?
Because we work with approximately 30 vendors, we don’t have an online system in place to track every order. If you call our office at 877-478-2586 or 294-2648 (locally), we can check with the vendor to get your order status. Many vendors can provide a tracking number upon request.

What if I receive something that wasn’t what I ordered? What if I’m missing something in my order?
Call the Alumni Association at 877-478-2586 or 294-2648 (locally). We will work with the respective vendor to get the order corrected. Keep in mind that if you are missing something, different vendors will ship from different locations, so it’s a possibility that an item is still coming your way.

Do all the items arrive in the same package?
Not necessarily. Different vendors ship from different locations, so your order may arrive in more than one package.

What if I want to exchange or return something?
Call the Alumni Association at 877-478-2586 or 294-2648 (locally), and we will work with the respective vendor. You will more than likely need to ship the item you don’t want back to the ISUAA or the vendor (at your cost). If there was a mistake on the order, the ISUAA or the vendor will take responsibility for any costs associated with the exchange.

How do you choose merchandise vendors? How do I find out more on becoming a vendor?
We have a set of merchandise guidelines when contracting with vendors, and we like to make sure the following applies: the product is of top quality, offered at a fair price, is unique and connected to ISU, is marketable to ISU alumni and friends, and adheres to all licensing regulations of ISU. In addition, the vendor must drop-ship per order, offer a guarantee on the product and delivery, and provide complimentary samples to the ISUAA. If you’re interested in partnering with the ISUAA to offer merchandise, please contact Sara Wilson at sjwilson@iastate.edu or 515-294-3977.