Most of us have been in a meeting where someone shares an interesting idea or earnest suggestion only to be shot down based on one donor or colleague's feedback: “So-and-so won’t go for that!” And, in recent years, we've all racked our brains for a measured response to frustrated emails and voicemails from university constituents, often about topics and events we simply can't control.

What does it mean to operate from a place of fear in our work—from endless what-ifs and what-abouts— instead of focusing on what could go right, and what we’re doing well? Even as we navigate campus controversies and a range of strong opinions, how can donor relations professionals resist a fear-based mindset (fixating on mistakes, anticipating reactions, squashing innovation) in favor of an approach that empowers our teammates, satisfies and celebrates our donors, and champions our values as an institution?

Emily Brorby and Kelly Monroe, donor relations staff at Stanford University, will share concrete strategies to create a workplace culture of curiosity, trust, idea-sharing, and mutual respect while facing donor relations challenges. We will share case studies of tough donor communications and highlight opportunities to build resilience and openness among your team members. These tools to cultivate an empowered donor relations approach apply to individual contributors, managers, and leaders advocating for change or seeking buy-in with your development colleagues.

In the fall of 2024, CASE partnered with FundMiner to launch a Roundtable Series aimed at exploring and developing a common framework for fund management practices, guidelines, and standards. These roundtables included 30+ CASE member institutions, addressing four key areas of fund management practice. This session will present the results from each of the four sessions, showcasing one institution in each discussion area:
• Fund management Oversight, Transparency, and Accountability
• Common Standards in Fund Management
• Impact and Financial Reporting
• Monitoring, Hygiene and Best Practices in Fund Management

As Donor Relations professionals, we strive to make our acknowledgements timely, meaningful, and authentic. Ideally gift officers are an integral part of the process and offer their input to make letters personal and effective. However, other priorities, limited staffing and logistics can get in the way. Over the past year, our team at Stony Brook University has transformed our ACK letters process using effective project management tools, sending over 1400 personalized letters to donors within 1-2 weeks of making their gift with only two dedicated staff positions. By leveraging technology and partnering effectively with gift officers and advancement leadership, you also can transform your acknowledgement letter process.

Discover how Colorado State University has transformed its scholarship stewardship program over the past four years to better reflect its values, mission, and commitment to equity. This session explores the journey of reimagining stewardship, offering key insights into rethinking power dynamics in philanthropy and the lessons learned along the way. From eliminating student barriers and protecting privacy to fostering transparent donor practices, we’ll unpack the strategies, collaborations, and leadership that have shaped this transformation—ensuring that stewardship efforts justly include students and donors. This timely discussion is for all those who advocate for vulnerable communities or work to address inequities in fundraising. You'll leave with knowledge and inspiration to promote more equitable giving relationships, through the lens of donor relations and stewardship.

Discover how to elevate donor relations by crafting a world-class experience for major and principal gift donors. Using the metaphor of a charcuterie board and let's be honest, this session is filled with many metaphors. This session will guide you through creating a thoughtful and personalized annual plan that harmonizes core engagement activities, supporting experiences, and personal touches. No shop or staff size is too small to apply these principles. Learn how to strategically plan and tailor interactions to deepen donor connections and ensure lasting partnerships. Join us to transform your donor relations strategy into a memorable and impactful experience.

Join us for "Tech-Driven Impact: Elevating Engagement and Streamlining Workflow” -
a session designed to inspire and equip nonprofit professionals. Explore innovative technologies that amplify donor impact, elevate storytelling, and boost retention while simplifying workloads. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, you’ll gain actionable insights to creatively and efficiently transform your approach to donor engagement. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just starting your digital journey, this session will empower you to revolutionize your strategies and make a lasting impact.