Tired of “batch and blast” emails? Want to avoid unsubscribes and being marked SPAM? Learn more about how NYU transitioned to an alumni-centric opt-in email strategy that empowers alumni to control the messaging they receive and the clubs they hear from. This session covers the opt-in strategy highlights, as well as execution of the preference center and opt-in communications campaign.

Review the essential aspects of successful solicitations—using videos from today’s media. Learn six non-negotiables: 1) know your prospects; 2) acknowledge, appreciate, and move beyond objections; 3) make the most compelling case; 4) distinguish your solicitation; 5) explain that you cannot succeed without the prospective donor; and 6) share names of other key philanthropic investors. Strategies for these steps can be seen in key, emotional moments from popular movies and television shows; coaching with a twist! Sharing these examples and walking through best practices—and where they're lacking—in each clip.

In the midst of a campaign, staff transition, and a new database, the US Naval Academy Foundation went out to change the way we used metrics in major gifts fundraising. This presentation covers the transition to a metrics-based major gifts staff that focuses on helping gift officers achieve better results through valuable metrics that go beyond dollars raised. Discuss what metrics we developed, learn how we built a tracking system, and find out how we are implementing change within the major gifts team.

Are you looking to reimagine your donor proposals? Is your proposal creation process ready for a reboot with the most important content experts engaged in the process? Do your proposals evoke an emotional reaction that compels donors to commit? These questions and more were answered for the University at Buffalo with a deep assessment and reinvention of its proposal creation process, which produced winning proposals donors love. Come learn how UB has taken donor proposals to a new level of communication.

NYU implemented a strategic shift toward an interest-based approach to prospect assignment and development staff realignment. THE SHIFT allows fundraisers to engage with a greater number of prospects while better aligning donor’s interests with university’s priorities. THE SHIFT required approval from university and development leadership and the collaboration of colleagues in fundraising, prospect development, IT and gift administration teams. The case for making THE SHIFT is strong as many institutions consider how to implement policies and guidelines that are donor-centric and effective in reaching more prospects in impactful ways.

The end of the campaign is in sight, and your team is closing in on its goals. Now what? The campaign close is a great opportunity to communicate about the impact donors have made on your institution and to paint a picture of the brighter future that lies ahead. Dscuss and share examples of the tools and tactics you’ll need to communicate success and maintain momentum: crisp messaging, smart collateral disseminated across channels, and a comprehensive plan to organize and maximize your strategy.

Review nine characteristics of Millennials and post-Millennials that drive much of their behavior. Identify actionable tactics to increase this population’s philanthropic engagement.

As advancement professionals, we need alumni volunteers to serve not only as ambassadors for the institution but to serve as role models for their peers. When volunteer leaders are engaged, educated, and stewarded in relevant ways, they can have a major impact and amplify the work of the professional staff to support the institution's strategic priorities. Learn how the Temple University Young Alumni Association shifted its board culture and education strategy to secure 100 percent participation and increase peer-to-peer fundraising efforts to engage young alumni during Temple’s day of giving.

Review best event strategies to make your events hit it out of the park! We’ll cover each stage of event planning from conception (spring training) to follow-up strategies (the walk off home run). This session is great for new event professionals or seasoned planners looking for ways to engage and steward donors and potential donors. 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion continue to be priorities for many higher education institutions, but how does this translate to advancement? Beyond hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, where and how should we be focusing our efforts toward diversity, equity, and inclusion? Explore practical ways to build a DE&I strategy for leveraging the benefits of a diverse workforce and engaging with diverse prospects, donors, and alumni.