In major gift fundraising, there is a more important “ask” than the request for a gift. In prospect strategy discussions, staff members, board members, and other volunteers usually focus on the what, when, and how associated with asking for gifts, and they typically spend little to no time on this more important ask: asking prospective donors what they and their families are hoping and planning to accomplish with their philanthropy.

At the beginning of FY 2016 the University of Utah jumped into monthly sustaining solicitations. We knew some of the hurdles we’d encounter and discovered a handful of more along the way.

 

In less than three years, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) has seen tremendous growth and success in its student philanthropy efforts.

This is the latest iteration of the legislative and regulatory developments affecting charitable giving, endowments and other issues affecting advancement offices.

Learn how to engage others in your organization in stewardship activities, deepen donors’ connections to your institution and their understanding of the impact of philanthropy on your mission.

Discover key factors for success in building a solid annual fund—and then moving those donors to the top of the giving pyramid.

April L. Harris
Events and protocol expert April Harris offers up-to-date and easy-to-use advice on the dos and don’ts of campus etiquette.

April L. Harris
Special events can make or break your institution’s engagement goals.

John A. Feudo
Alumni relations has always been an “on the ground” effort, where the execution and implementation of programs is viewed as more critical than the behind-the-scenes thought process.