Affinity and Identity-based alumni engagement is a powerful strategy framework designed to foster stronger connections with our communities. Rather than solely organizing events and solicitations on graduating class identity, this framework leverages an individual's interest and identity to engage more effectively. In this session, we will discuss the “magic of 3” and how to optimize relationship building using affinity and identity to achieve successful outcomes including deeper connections, better event attendance, and stronger fundraising.

Immersive 360 degree experiences have moved beyond the theme park and science museum to be considered as another media format for institutions. But how do you conceive of a story that has nothing “out of frame”? What are the best strategies to create compelling experiences that embrace authenticity over gimmick? And finally what are the technical challenges to deploy these types of stories within a limited budget? Ravi will share his experiences in creating panoramic tours, 360-degree video stories and full fledged virtual tours for Boston College–and will offer his take on where this is all going.

Effective communications are not predicated on messages sent, but messages received. With this in mind, what makes for an effective message—whether it’s contained in an email, a social media post, a magazine story, or a web page. It all comes back to language, the words we use to connect, to convince, to move, and to persuade. Language matters: a primer on word choice to enhance effective communications.

If you can chat over dinner, you already know how to interview. But let’s walk through ten steps that will make sure you get the material you need to write the stories that last. Plus, the tough questions: Should you ask them? Are you allowed to ask them as a campus communicator? Let’s talk.

The most important part of an integrated marketing strategy is actually having one. (Yogi Berra didn’t say that, Ravi did.) The seduction of multi-channel, multi-platform, multi-media communication can often lead to campaigns running amok and missed opportunities of coordinated efforts. It is often said that Alfred Hitchcock was so meticulous in his pre-production planning, scripting and storyboarding that he felt his films were essentially finished before they even started shooting. Ravi will tap into his own filmmaking background to show how you can effectively partner with critical stakeholders in your institution to successfully build an effective integrated marketing strategy that is more “Notorious” rather than “Psycho”.

Higher education has always included scandal and crisis, but some institutions weather reputation management better than others. Learn how to increase your chances of avoiding that worst-case scenario. This session isn’t focused on scaring you about the perils of a crisis— we’ve all witnessed how institutions have fared and know the risks. During our time together, hear how you can be a resource in advance of a crisis, how to define processes and institutional values outside of a crisis situation, and tips for assisting your leaders and institution should they face a high-profile problem or an actual crisis. Teresa will provide a realistic and pragmatic review of higher education crises and provide attendees with a to-do list for summer planning and strategizing, and a to-don’t list in advance of what is shaping up to be a politically charged semester.

Attendees will meet daily with advisory groups co-led by expert faculty members to debrief from the day’s learning and problem-solve in real-time.

In today's ever-evolving workplace, it is crucial to develop effective strategies for managing up to your supervisors and navigating your organization's structure. We will explore the art of managing from your seat, providing you with insights and practical techniques to cultivate strong relationships with supervisors and peers while influencing the decision-making process. We will explore how to effectively communicate your ideas, and results to supervisors, ensuring your contributions are acknowledged and appreciated. Additionally, we will delve into techniques for growing your reputation and credibility and positioning you for success in today’s rapidly changing work environment.

In the ever-evolving landscape of alumni relations and fundraising, understanding and leveraging the power of data is critical for success. This session will delve into the strategic use of metrics and KPI to drive alumni engagement and boost fundraising outcomes. Attendees will learn how to harness data to identify trends, measure engagement effectiveness, and tailor outreach efforts for maximum ROI.

Join us for an engaging presentation that explores the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of educational fundraising. Uncover the potential of AI to revolutionize how institutions connect with alumni, build relationships, and secure vital financial resources. Come learn how AI can empower your institution to achieve new levels of fundraising success while fostering lifelong relationships with donors.