In 2025, The Ohio State University created a bespoke and fun impact report and gift for a new principal gift donor, which we called, A Campaign of Gratitude. Designed with the donor’s personality and interests in mind, the experience celebrated a transformational gift in a way that was personal and creative. We developed a custom, story-driven experience inspired by choose-your-own-adventure books and Dungeons and Dragons. Yes, you read that correctly. At the heart of the gift was The Hidden Path, a bespoke narrative that wove the donor’s philanthropic impact into a fictional journey. The experience was complemented by personalized dice (including a Block O D-20), figurines of the donor’s cats, who appear as characters in the story, and a custom game box as packaging. Throughout the journey, the donor encounters people and situations that reflect how his scholarship support helps students find their way. Designed as a quiet, self-guided experience, the gift allowed the donor to engage at his own pace and on his own terms. The response was immediate and heartfelt. After engaging with the story, the donor shared, “I’ve never received such a thoughtful and appropriate gift.” The project exemplifies how creativity and personalization can bring donor impact to life in memorable ways.
From the Judges
We were particularly struck by one aspect of the submission: Upon receiving the Campaign of Gratitude, the donor immediately shared positive feedback with his prospect manager. After spending time reflecting on the story, he followed up with an unsolicited email stating, “I’ve never received such a thoughtful and appropriate gift.” This response highlights just how well-tailored, unique, and impactful the piece was—an excellent example of truly bespoke stewardship.
