My name is Persida Viñas Chung (she/her). While I’m originally from the Philippines, I have lived in Wales since 2005, when I moved to study Psychology at Bangor University, and today, I’m proud to serve as a Development Officer at my alma mater.

I've worked in the higher education sector since 2014 and joined Bangor University’s Development and Alumni Relations team nearly two years ago. But I've always believed in the transformative power of education. Arriving in the UK as an international student was challenging, yet I hold those memories close. I often reflect on how the struggle shaped me and how the people I met along the way played a vital role in helping me find purpose.

The experience planted a quiet conviction in me—that one day I’d be in a role where I wouldn’t just work to make a living, I’d work for a deeper purpose. I’d help students feel genuinely seen, supported, and encouraged throughout their university life.

Working in educational advancement allows me to begin fulfilling that mission. It’s a space where I connect with people who care deeply about giving back, and I get to honour their generosity by telling stories that celebrate impact and ignite possibility. The opportunity to amplify student voices and foster meaningful, inclusive connections through emotionally resonant communication feels like the most natural extension of my values, my journey, and my evolving skillset.

Tell us about your role…

As Development Officer, my day-to-day work focuses on regular and legacy giving, donor stewardship, and amplifying the Bangor Fund. I love collaborating with schools, colleges, and departments to support projects that deliver a ‘margin of excellence’ to the student experience. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how gifts made to the Bangor Fund enrich the students and help them to thrive both academically and personally.

But managing the Bangor Fund goes far beyond fundraising and selecting suitable awardees—it’s about deepening engagement and bringing project stories to life. I get to witness their creativity and impact firsthand, and I take pride in telling their stories.

As part of our regular giving activity, I’ve also supervised student callers during Telethon campaigns. It’s not just about training—I help them connect with the deeper purpose of the work. I’ve had students share with me afterwards how they’ve enjoyed making a difference and discovered joy in helping others. It reminds me that empowering young people to lead with heart may be the most important contribution I make.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

I’ve recently graduated from my MBA, which I completed while in my role, and I’m so happy to have graduated with Distinction. Balancing study, work, and family life (I’m a proud mother to two incredible boys who inspire me daily) was challenging at times, but deeply fulfilling. 

The experience has given me fresh strategic insight and renewed confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to Bangor University’s advancement goals, while staying anchored in the values that brought me to this field.

What encouraged you to apply for the CASE Scholarship for the Spring Institute in Educational Fundraising?

My line manager, Emma Marshall, Head of the Development and Alumni Relations, recognised the opportunity for growth and encouraged me to pursue it with confidence. Having a manager who believes in your potential and invests in your development makes all the difference!

CASE Institutes provide a unique collegial environment. What was your favourite element of this experience?

The sense of community was truly special. Being surrounded by professionals who share a passion for education and philanthropy created an energising and supportive atmosphere. I especially valued the open exchange of ideas and the generosity with which colleagues shared their experiences—it made learning feel collaborative and empowering.

If you’re attending a CASE conference for the first time, don’t underestimate the power of informal conversations—they often spark the most valuable insights and build lasting connections. I feel fortunate to have met generous people through CASE. Their wisdom and openness help me to find new confidence and clarity in my work.

How will you use your key learning takeaways from the Institute to support your current work?  

One of the most empowering takeaways has been to find the courage to experiment and trust that trying something new, when rooted in purpose and feasibility, can lead to authentic engagement and growth.  

I came away with practical tools on donor motivation, campaign planning, and working harmoniously with ‘my village’, which is the network of colleagues, supporters, and peers who make this work meaningful.

I now feel confident adopting new creative strategies to promote the Bangor Fund and legacy programme, and spotlight student outcomes with greater clarity and heart. I’m committed to taking things step by step, creating approaches that are achievable within our means.

What career aspirations do you have for the next year?

In the coming year, I hope to proactively develop our legacy campaigns now that I have the right tools! I also aim to refine our stewardship approach to be even more emotionally engaging and culturally responsive.  

Longer term, I’d love to enhance our regular giving programme and connect with our international alumni—this may take some time as we’re only a small Development and Alumni Relations team of five. But each role in our team is vital, and I deeply value that we’re so close-knit, as everyone is so supportive and encouraging. So, I’m positive that we will achieve this work at its own perfect time.  

On a more personal level, I’m keen to mentor others entering the field, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. 

The CASE Europe Scholarship for the Spring Institute in Educational Fundraising (SIEF) was made possible by generous donations to the CASE Europe Trust.