From the Nominator

The Certified Advancement Partner Program at Miami University is a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge the gap between university advancement and campus partners. Navigating the intricacies of advancement can be challenging, often leading to missed opportunities and disconnected efforts. CAPP was launched to educate faculty and staff, empower them as ambassadors, and foster deeper collaboration in fundraising, alumni relations, and donor stewardship. Through four in-depth cohort sessions annually, CAPP provides participants with a structured curriculum that includes an overview of advancement functions from development to stewardship, interactive discussions on philanthropy’s role in institutional success, real-world perspectives through a "Dean, a Doc, and a Donor" panel, and strategic networking opportunities to facilitate ongoing partnerships. Since its launch in 2023, CAPP has engaged 17 divisions across campus, including assistant and associate deans, department chairs, and vice presidents, achieved a 9.5 out of ten average participant satisfaction rating, elevated participants' professional recognition through the awarding of LinkedIn badges and certificates, and garnered external validation, including a CASE V & VI presentation selection and a Creativity and Innovation Award from Miami University. CAPP has transformed how Miami University faculty and staff engage with advancement, creating a sustainable model that can be replicated across institutions.

From the Judges

Very well done! Creative and effective approach to educate campus partners and, more importantly, engage them in the work of advancement. High quality program with clear outcomes. We hope you will sustain this program for years to come.