Designed for those new to campaigns this interactive workshop will provide a broad overview, serving as a launching pad for deeper dives into specific aspects of campaigns in conference sessions. We will discuss: different types of campaigns the benefits of campaigns campaign timing core elements of successful campaigns Vision and Priorities (identifying, articulating) Infrastructure Optimization (e.g. policies, systems, staffing, reporting) Fundraising (e.g. goal setting) Communications (messaging at each stage) Engagement (internal and external stakeholders and volunteers) We’ll touch – by design - on a number of topics at a high level that will be covered in more depth in conference sessions. The workshop should set people who have not yet been deeply involved in campaigns up to walk with confidence into the rest of the conference and to maximize benefits of other sessions.

This advanced workshop is for campaign leaders and teams. The workshop will help attendees contextualize trends and focus on preparedness and planning for leadership. There will be time to answer questions so bring your concerns!

Higher education continues to face a convergence of issues and perceptions that can directly impact our ability to raise ambitious private philanthropy in support of our institutions, especially through the traditional campaign construct. This discussion will look at the present-day challenges your institution might encounter in successfully building out and executing a comprehensive effort from political dynamics on campus and across our donor bases to present day public debates on the value around higher education, to changing demographics and donor preferences that are emerging across next generation graduates, to limited resources in many institutions to take on build out the teams and tools needed to execute a campaign.

Applying the CASE Global Reporting Standards to your campaign planning. Wondering how the new edition of the CASE Global Reporting Standards will affect your campaign planning? Come to this session to learn campaign planning the CASE Standards way. We cover basic principles as well as special topics like reachbacks, bequests and DAFs. We also touch on some examples from the Library to get you started with those new campaign plans.

What are strategic initiatives and how do we utilize them to have more inspirational and impactful conversations with our biggest principal gifts donors? We will discuss ways to engage leaders in this work, think about the role of development as key facilitators in this process. We will also share examples of how this might work in real life.

More than just a flashy name and logo, your campaign brand tells the story of where you are today, and where you aspire to be with the philanthropic support of your alumni and donors by the end of the campaign. This session will provide an overview of the basics and outcomes of campaign branding, but will focus on how to start well, how to engage campus partners, avoid pitfalls, and align your campaign brand across campus – from launch to campaign close.

Join conference faculty and your colleagues to network and unwind after Day 1. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and drinks will be provided. Don't forget your business cards!