In 2017, Villanova University reimagined its regional “Chapter Challenge” from a competition heavily influenced by major university donors to a competition run by the people, for the people. Meet “The Nova Challenge,” a four-day giving campaign where regional clubs appeal to their members and raise funds that go directly back to the local club community through operations and local student scholarships. Find out how a partnership between alumni relations and annual giving can increase donor participation, create a little competition, and fund your university’s regional club program.

We all face the problem of a shrinking and aging donor file, and our bosses are telling us to do something about it by reaching out to younger donors. But what should our expectations from these donors be? Learn about a 2018 study to determine the giving habits of the various different generational groups (i.e. Millennials, Gen Xers, Baby Boomers, etc.) and what we should be expecting from our own donors. Find out how Swarthmore College (and other institutions) are attracting young alumni through effective and proven direct marketing strategies.

The world of crowdfunding is ever evolving, with both institutions and platforms trying to keep up with what the donor expects in their peer-to-peer fundraising. This session focuses on how crowdfunding has shifted in the last few years, how institutions can take advantage of these changes both in crowdfunding and in the donors, and finally look into the future as to where crowdfunding could be potentially going.

Cornell Engineering increased from 843 to 2,608 donors on Giving Day between FY 17 and FY18, an increase of 309%. In 2019, we increased again by 24%. Through a modest matching gift program, offering $25,000 in funds across 20 student groups, we leveraged student enthusiasm to bring in thousands more gifts. With this program we have been able to access student networks to increase donors and dollars: Dollars also increased by 228% the first year ($48,000 increase), and then by 14% again in 2019. Find out how we did it.