Is it worth getting an alum to write me a letter of rec? Would it have any pull on admissions/UHP/merit money? Or will it merely be glanced at?
A quality letter of rec is worth more than one who’s written by an important person.
If this alumni knows you well and can write a good letter, then go for it. But if they would only write a mediocre letter, than go with your teacher or advisor or coach or anybody else who knows you really well.
Most colleges ask for LoRs from someone, usually a teacher, who knows you in an academic context.