Lehigh University and Lafayette College share the most-played rivalry in college football history—with over 160 meetings. While these institutions are fierce competitors on the field, their donor relations shops face the shared challenge of advancing the ball at opposite ends of the campaign lifecycle: Lehigh is nearing a campaign close, while Lafayette is orchestrating the quiet phase. Joined by moderator Ashlyn Sowell (Senior Associate Vice President, Johns Hopkins University), this session offers a comprehensive "view from the sidelines" on how to strategically position a donor relations program for each campaign quarter.
The panel will move beyond the scorecard to discuss the essential infrastructure required for campaign success. We will dive into the pre-game prep of policies, gift agreements, and locking down gift thresholds and naming opportunities with university leadership. We will share strategies for a SWOT analysis and determining centralized vs. decentralized responsibilities, ensuring every team member knows their position on the field. This session covers the “X’s and O’s” of how to convey impact and celebrate milestones. Finally, we will discuss how to adjust the game plan by leveraging strategy and technology to address increased volume and personalized stewardship goals, ensuring your program doesn't fumble as the stakes get higher.