Many academic leaders aim to build a leadership culture in their departments that promotes faculty retention and creates a bench of future leaders. However, common challenges such as competitive, individualistic cultures and skepticism towards administration thwart many of these efforts. Academic leaders must take an intentional approach that blends strategy, communication, and collaboration to resolve […]
When donors want to establish a scholarship for the two federally protected class groups that receive the most legal scrutiny–women and students of color–your advancement shop must navigate risk in a way that doesn’t scare away donors or distract from their intent. It’s necessary to understand the shifting legal landscape affecting scholarships for these protected […]
Discovery work is an essential part of the fundraising process because it’s your first access point to learning how to optimize a potential donor’s philanthropic interest. Refining your approach and strategy is a great way to continue gaining confidence in your ability to be conversational as a fundraiser. The ability to ask insightful questions that […]
Many educational institutions benefit from large matching or challenge gifts (not to be confused with corporate matching gift programs). A donor makes a gift or pledge with the expectation that the advancement shop will raise the same amount of funds from other donors. For example, a donor may pledge $50M to a new building project […]
Collaborating with academic leaders is a strategic priority for many of us, and by connecting with deans and academic leaders in intentional ways early in the fundraising cycle, you help your academic colleagues see themselves within philanthropy. Perhaps more importantly, you also provide alumni and donors the opportunity to realize the impact of their investment. […]
Your alumni board is the foundation of your efforts to engage alumni and donors successfully. However, to expand beyond traditional engagement strategies that intentionally connect with your diverse alumni population more effectively, you need to have an alumni board that reflects the current diversity of your student and alumni body. How you construct and implement […]
A Chief of Staff often serves as the convener between the university and the community at large. From working with local leaders to law enforcement to local employers, having strong relationships with those outside the institution can help to efficiently and collaboratively tackle challenges that arise. In this 60-minute webcast, you will learn how to […]
Your donors’ views of current events may not always align with your personal or institutional values and mission, which can create tension when cultivating the relationship. How do you navigate through those conversations in a way that sustains or even builds the connection? Join us online to hear from our expert facilitator on how the […]
For the past year, the pandemic has caused academic leaders to have to pivot rapidly. Whether working on college-level strategic plans, the implementation of new academic programs, or the retooling of curriculum, the nature of the crisis necessitated quick, decisive action without much room for pause or deliberation. Fast forward to today, and though the […]
Gaining corporate partners to sponsor undergraduate research and design projects is a great way to provide students with quality work experience and enhance the reputation of your institution. But there are many challenges associated with approaching potential partners and closing the deal. Understanding how to clearly communicate your goals and anticipating what questions future partners […]
