Strategies to Achieve Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Goals in Major Gift Strategy
This session will discuss the importance of reframing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goals as fundamental to best practice advancement. Despite the acrimony currently surrounding DEI, particularly in higher education, the premise of focusing on the interests of the prospective donor remains best practice. As the alumni of colleges and universities continue to become more diverse, the value of intentionally engaging alumni of color, who tend to be underrepresented as volunteers and donors is imperative to ensure institutional sustainability.
Disruption in the higher education sector continues to be a threat and philanthropy is an increasingly important tool in responding to this challenge. DEI is the key to increasing the interest, involvement and investment of alumni of color, so being strategic and intentional about leveraging this tool will be a core topic in this session. Additionally, the identification of monetary and non-monetary goals that contribute to the achievement of DEI goals as part of major gift strategy will also be explored. Ultimately, if we are going to raise more money, we need to engage more alumni and using the DEI lens will help achieve that vital goal.