Ghostwriting, or writing for someone else, can be a frightful journey. In this session, learn top tips for taking a message (e.g. speech or letter) you’re writing for a dean, board chair, or other campus leader from request to delivery. How do you start? Where can you find information and inspiration? How do you capture someone else’s voice — even when you rarely interact with them? What processes can help create structure and momentum in successfully completing the project? We will also meet a few demons that can stand in our way — Imposter syndrome? Eek! Mean responses? No! — and share ways to slay them. To cap off the session, we will brainstorm ideas for messaging a few different scenarios.

Come learn about UC Berkeley's Pipeline Development Program and how we're growing our pipeline with two lead generation strategies; Discovery Journeys and the Bubble Up Initiative. These innovative programs offer a new approach to identifying and qualifying prospects by blending traditional frontline efforts with mass communication outreach strategies. These programs streamline prospect qualification and deliver warm, vetted prospects to Gift Officers. This allows Gift Officers to spend more time building relationships and making the ask, and less time doing cold outreach. This reallocation of resources will empower your advancement department to reach thousands more prospects per year.

The University of California Merced graduated its inaugural class of undergraduates in 2009. As the newest campus within the UC system, the average age of UC Merced alumni is only 28 years old. By establishing a special “Alumni Scholarship Endowment” giving program, the university has been able to transition its young alumni from supporters and advocates to major gift donors. This giving program also includes a special “signing ceremony” event that not only deepens their commitment to their alma mater, but promotes giving and demonstrates impact to their colleagues, family, and friends. Join this session to learn more about generational giving, how UC Merced engages its young alumni population, and secures transformative gifts.