Johns Hopkins University & Medicine - Development and Alumni Relations’ Post

Alright, the CASE District VII and VIII Conference is just around the corner! 👏 👏 👏 I want to start by giving a shout-out to the planning committee and many session leaders and volunteers - this looks like the best agenda for a district conference I have ever seen! It is really challenging to decide what to attend, especially with interesting sessions often taking place at the same time. Some of the time blocks have 3 or more sessions taking place concurrently that I would just love to attend! 🔍 👀 Here are some of the programs that caught my eye: 🏀 "Blazing a Trail: Engaging Alumni, Empowering Students, and Elevating Community" Strategic engagement? Say no more! 🤝 "Personal Solicitation and Face to Face Fundraising Workshop" Ray Watts' session is a classic for a reason! If you haven't seen it before, I strongly recommend learning tips from Ray for impactful donor meetings, and I love his "just do it" ethos of requesting and booking meetings. 🗺 "Navigating the Engagement Odyssey: A Strategic Approach to Volunteers" Since I'm presenting, you know I'll be there! Join me to learn about the steps you can take to develop a volunteer engagement plan that maps onto your unit or team's mission, values, and goals. 💼 "Building a Case for Engagement - What's Your Shift?" I'm really curious to learn how the UBC team built engagement goals and strategies into their campaign. I've seen engagement sidelined or excluded in campaigns and strategic planning, despite it being the foundation of our work, so this definitely piqued my interest. 👩🔧 "The Future of The Donor Pipeline: Where Annual, Leadership and Major Giving Meet" You may already know I'm fascinated with the movement to use annual giving tools to create lead generation and personal outreach at scale with leadership and major giving. 📜 🖋 "Alumni Identity and the Case for Support of Higher Education" I don't totally know what I'm in for with this, but Jay Le Roux Dillon, Ed.D.'s session description is too mysterious and enticing to pass up. 🥞 Breakfast roundtable discussion: strategic planning. During Monday's breakfast, join me to discuss what strategic planning is and how to use it drive your team to success. ❓ ❓❓❓❓❓ For me, one of the best parts of a conference is the unexpected. Being ready to go with the flow, make random connections, or find old friends can be such a delight. So I will always leave some open space on my calendar to let what happens, happen. See you in Anaheim!

Wow, it's clearly day of giving season out there! It's exciting to see so many of my friends and colleagues launch their campaigns, and the early results look great so far. With so many types of schools and fundraising teams running successful giving days right now, you may want to know what they all have in common. Here are some of the most important elements of these campaigns: Planning. If you didn't have anything besides excellent planning, you may still be able to put together a credible giving day. Not only do you need to create a complex operating plan, you need to be clear from the beginning of your planning for the entire year how this day will fit your overall communications and engagement plan, which likely extends beyond annual giving into other teams like alumni engagement, stewardship, marcomm, and more. Collaboration. Complex planning is impossible without solid team collaboration. Collaboration can create your best ideas from content to operations. And collaboration extends outside of the office - to the donors and influencers you have a relationship with. Those relationships can be key when it comes to nailing the POV for your campaign and building credibility with your prospects. Content. What you say matters. Understanding your audience/s will help lead you to persuasive content. And make sure your day of giving content isn't just asks - folks like Ashley Budd and the team at Cornell have really nailed this approach. If you're doing it right, your audiences will be ready to give when the big day comes, and the day will be about the joy of giving. A strong content approach also includes stewardship unique to this campaign. Project Management. This is the glue of a successful giving day. From working with project sponsors to understand resources available, to over-communicating everything you need the team to execute, to having your myriad ops and tech stack ready to perform - project management is an important skill and practice that will elevate your campaign. Celebration. Teams that have fun and who are honored are more likely to stick together and create more interesting and valuable campaigns year after year. Celebrating everyone who contributes to these campaigns and creating a strong culture around a day of giving is what leads to transformational campaigns. What other building blocks of successful giving days did I miss? 

July AL!VE Academy: Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy - presented by David Horwitz, CVA July 25 at 2 PM Eastern for 90 minutes In today's dynamic and competitive media landscape, effective research-based recruitment and communications strategies are essential for success in volunteer engagement. To create strategies that truly resonate with your target volunteers and potential partners, it is crucial to base your decisions on up-to-date data and insights. The good news: market research can be as easy as scrolling through social media—that is, if you know how to collect and analyze what you read. This session, "Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy," is designed to equip volunteer managers, partnership coordinators, and communication specialists with the fundamental marketing research tools required to craft effective communications. About our presenter: David Horwitz is an experienced communications practitioner and educator who brings a strategic approach to volunteer engagement, digital campaigns, and nonprofit program management. He currently manages strategic partnerships and community engagement at AARP Foundation where he leads a team to increase partnerships, volunteer recruitment and retention, and community engagement for the volunteer-based Experience Corps literacy tutoring program. Outside his nine-to-five commitments, David teaches a graduate seminar in communications and marketing research at the Johns Hopkins University. David is appointed by Mayor Muriel Bowser to the DC Commission for National and Community Service and helps oversee AmeriCorps grants and service programs, community resilience efforts, and nonprofit capacity building. Previously, he managed global outreach campaigns and engaged tens of thousands of volunteers to annually reach over 50 million people with positive messages about science. David is most passionate about programs and communications that build community, support education, alleviate poverty, and promote equity. David earned his BA in Communications from University of California, Davis and his MA in Communications from California State University, Fresno. AL!VE Academy Webinars are free for Individual, Agency and Local Association members. The general public is welcome to attend, but will be billed $25 after attending and will receive a copy of the slide deck, recording, and attendance certificate upon request. If you registered as a Local association member, please be sure you have listed your local association's acronym or name in the registration. Learn more about AL!VE membership at our website. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gaxFSuGc

July AL!VE Academy: Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy - presented by David Horwitz, CVA July 25 at 2 PM Eastern for 90 minutes In today's dynamic and competitive media landscape, effective research-based recruitment and communications strategies are essential for success in volunteer engagement. To create strategies that truly resonate with your target volunteers and potential partners, it is crucial to base your decisions on up-to-date data and insights. The good news: market research can be as easy as scrolling through social media—that is, if you know how to collect and analyze what you read. This session, "Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy," is designed to equip volunteer managers, partnership coordinators, and communication specialists with the fundamental marketing research tools required to craft effective communications. About our presenter: David Horwitz is an experienced communications practitioner and educator who brings a strategic approach to volunteer engagement, digital campaigns, and nonprofit program management. He currently manages strategic partnerships and community engagement at AARP Foundation where he leads a team to increase partnerships, volunteer recruitment and retention, and community engagement for the volunteer-based Experience Corps literacy tutoring program. Outside his nine-to-five commitments, David teaches a graduate seminar in communications and marketing research at the Johns Hopkins University. David is appointed by Mayor Muriel Bowser to the DC Commission for National and Community Service and helps oversee AmeriCorps grants and service programs, community resilience efforts, and nonprofit capacity building. Previously, he managed global outreach campaigns and engaged tens of thousands of volunteers to annually reach over 50 million people with positive messages about science. David is most passionate about programs and communications that build community, support education, alleviate poverty, and promote equity. David earned his BA in Communications from University of California, Davis and his MA in Communications from California State University, Fresno. AL!VE Academy Webinars are free for Individual, Agency and Local Association members. The general public is welcome to attend, but will be billed $25 after attending and will receive a copy of the slide deck, recording, and attendance certificate upon request. If you registered as a Local association member, please be sure you have listed your local association's acronym or name in the registration. Learn more about AL!VE membership at our website. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gaxFSuGc

July AL!VE Academy: Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy - presented by David Horwitz, CVA July 25 at 2 PM Eastern for 90 minutes In today's dynamic and competitive media landscape, effective research-based recruitment and communications strategies are essential for success in volunteer engagement. To create strategies that truly resonate with your target volunteers and potential partners, it is crucial to base your decisions on up-to-date data and insights. The good news: market research can be as easy as scrolling through social media—that is, if you know how to collect and analyze what you read. This session, "Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy," is designed to equip volunteer managers, partnership coordinators, and communication specialists with the fundamental marketing research tools required to craft effective communications. About our presenter: David Horwitz is an experienced communications practitioner and educator who brings a strategic approach to volunteer engagement, digital campaigns, and nonprofit program management. He currently manages strategic partnerships and community engagement at AARP Foundation where he leads a team to increase partnerships, volunteer recruitment and retention, and community engagement for the volunteer-based Experience Corps literacy tutoring program. Outside his nine-to-five commitments, David teaches a graduate seminar in communications and marketing research at the Johns Hopkins University. David is appointed by Mayor Muriel Bowser to the DC Commission for National and Community Service and helps oversee AmeriCorps grants and service programs, community resilience efforts, and nonprofit capacity building. Previously, he managed global outreach campaigns and engaged tens of thousands of volunteers to annually reach over 50 million people with positive messages about science. David is most passionate about programs and communications that build community, support education, alleviate poverty, and promote equity. David earned his BA in Communications from University of California, Davis and his MA in Communications from California State University, Fresno. AL!VE Academy Webinars are free for Individual, Agency and Local Association members. The general public is welcome to attend, but will be billed $25 after attending and will receive a copy of the slide deck, recording, and attendance certificate upon request. If you registered as a Local association member, please be sure you have listed your local association's acronym or name in the registration. Learn more about AL!VE membership at our website. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gaxFSuGc

Excited to share some simple yet effective #MarketingResearch tips and tricks with the Association of Leaders In Volunteer Engagement and our passionate #VolunteerEngagement community. Join Thursday for this month's AL!VE Academy on "Simple Market Research Methods for Recruitment and Communications Strategy." 🗓️ Date: July 25 🕑 Time: 2:00 PM Eastern Discover how easy and impactful just a little bit of #Marketing research can be for developing strategies that resonate with your target audience. Consider this the first of many steps needed for recruiting more volunteers in your community.

Beyond Metrics: Experts Discuss the Future of Alumni Participation Success comes from relationships, not just rankings. For years, higher education institutions have focused on alumni participation rates as a key metric of fundraising success and a factor in college rankings. However, with the recent news that U.S. News and World Report has dropped alumni giving rates from its ranking methodology, institutions now have an opportunity to rethink how they approach and measure alumni engagement. According to Dr. Shalonda Martin, who participated in a recent discussion on alumni engagement, “Metrics should serve a purpose beyond just existing for the sake of existing.” Rather than chasing participation rates, schools can now focus on using data to benefit their institutions in more strategic ways. For example, understanding donor motivations—like their desire to create impact—and aligning messaging to resonate with these motivations. Fundraising expert Perry Radford believes the shift away from rankings also allows schools to approach fundraising with an “inclusive” mindset. “A lot of schools have pressure to get everyone to the table to give at whatever amount is meaningful to them,” Radford said. Creating a culture of philanthropy where all gifts matter is more meaningful than chasing arbitrary rate targets. To measure success beyond rates, schools may look to tools like CASE’s Alumni Engagement Metrics which consider factors like alumni satisfaction, loyalty, and advocacy. Digital engagement can also provide insight into how to better connect with younger alumni. Rethinking the traditional phone-a-thon model to focus on broader engagement and volunteering may open more opportunities for alumni to contribute in ways most meaningful to them. The experts agreed alumni participation still matters for demonstrating community support. But rather than “gaming the system,” schools can now authentically build that support through equitable engagement practices, strategic communications about impact, and partnerships across campus. For advancement teams, this shift means an opportunity to realize greater contributions and community impact. Overall, alumni engagement and fundraising stand to benefit when the focus moves beyond metrics for their own sake.

How Internal Communication Drives External Impact In the realm of nonprofits, where the mission is often centred around social change and community impact, effective communication is not just a tool but a cornerstone of success. While the focus may naturally gravitate towards external outreach efforts and fundraising campaigns, the internal communication infrastructure of a nonprofit plays an equally vital role in shaping its external impact. Let's explore how strong internal communication lays the foundation for powerful external engagement and outreach within nonprofits. At the heart of any nonprofit's operations lies its internal communication network, encompassing interactions among staff, volunteers, board members, and stakeholders. This network serves as the linchpin that connects the organization's mission and values with its day-to-day activities and external messaging. One of the most significant benefits of robust internal communication within nonprofits is alignment. When everyone within the organization—from leadership to frontline volunteers—understands and embraces the nonprofit's mission and objectives, they become unified in their efforts. This alignment translates into a cohesive external message that resonates with donors, supporters, and the community at large, fostering trust and credibility. Moreover, effective internal communication empowers staff and volunteers to become passionate advocates for the nonprofit's cause. When individuals feel informed, valued, and connected to the organization's mission, they are naturally inclined to share its message with others. This authentic advocacy not only expands the nonprofit's reach but also cultivates deeper connections with supporters who share its values and vision. Clear and consistent internal communication also plays a crucial role in volunteer and staff engagement. Volunteers are often the lifeblood of nonprofit organizations, dedicating their time, skills, and resources to further the cause. By keeping volunteers informed, motivated, and engaged through transparent communication channels, nonprofits can cultivate a loyal and committed base of supporters who are eager to contribute to the organization's success. Additionally, strong internal communication fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation within nonprofits. When ideas and feedback are welcomed and encouraged, staff and volunteers feel empowered to contribute their insights and expertise. This collaborative environment fuels creativity and problem-solving, leading to more effective strategies for external outreach and community impact. Lastly, internal communication serves as a feedback mechanism that enables nonprofits to continually refine and improve their external messaging and programs. By soliciting input from staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries, nonprofits can gain valuable insights into the needs and preferences of their target audience. Do you have any other points to add? 

#hiring Director of Development - Annual Giving & Membership, Boston, United States, fulltime #jobs #jobseekers #careers #Bostonjobs #Massachusettsjobs #ExecutivePositions Apply: https://lnkd.in/dCwFu8Bu New England Aquarium Director of Development - Annual Giving & Membership Supporting the New England Aquarium's mission and the Development Department's fundraising goals, the Director of Annual Giving & Membership is responsible for leading oversight, strategy, and execution of annual giving and membership program to achieve increasing revenue goals and to build a pipeline of donors with lifetime value. The Director is responsible for managing the staff and operations of the annual giving and membership team. This position as works with colleagues across the organization to leverage audience-related data to drive decision-making and develop a detailed strategy for program growth, including the implementation of innovation segmentation strategies, renewals, and acquisitions, crafting communications in collaboration with the marketing department, and organizing all programs and activities related to annual giving and membership societies. This position reports to the Vice President of Development and serves as a member of the development leadership team. Further, the Director will serve as key contributor advocating for a culture of philanthropy across the Aquarium that supports the best interests of the organization as well as the donors. This is a full-time regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The general schedule will be Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm with some flexibility based on the daily business needs. Candidates should be able to attend occasional events outside of business hours, such as member events. This position has a hybrid schedule, working some days on-site and some days remotely. Remote days are only available for residents of MA, RI, NH, ME, NY and VT. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Develop and execute a data-driven, comprehensive, multi-year plan that includes revenue goals for membership and annual giving to meet overall institutional revenue objectives and to build a broad pipeline of donors. Lead the team responsible for the management of annual giving and membership renewals, acquisitions, and communications including appeals and e-appeals, e-newsletters, and invitations. Implement effective ways to acquire new, renew lapsed, and upgrade current members, including society members, using a host of direct marketing strategies, onsite sales, and other promotions. This includes considering new categories, benefits and offers. Manage a modeling and segmentation program to achieve maximum giving and engagement to build the donor pipeline. Maintain and enhance a benefits package that retains the membership base, ensures constituency loyalty, and engages individuals in the organization's mission. Oversee market research and s

Fundraising Success Through Internal Relationships and Strategic Engagement Strong internal relationships and strategic engagement are the foundation for fundraising success, according to Adam Platzer, Assistant Vice President of College Advancement at the Rochester Institute of Technology. In a recent podcast, Platzer emphasized that “internal relationships are everything” for fundraisers. Without trust and collaboration across departments, fundraisers can’t gain access to key prospects or close major gifts. - Platzer recommends several strategies for building internal partnerships: Report back to faculty and staff when alumni or donors mention them. Send a quick email to say the donor spoke highly of them. This shows you value their relationships and role. - Ask faculty, staff and leadership for prospect referrals and advice. Have regular meetings to ask who they’ve been in contact with lately and who shows potential. - Invite faculty, staff and leadership to participate in stewardship. Have them sign thank you letters or meet with donors. This gives them visibility into the fundraising process and the impact of gifts. - Attend departmental and university meetings to update colleagues on fundraising priorities and events. Remind them how advancement can support their goals. - Get to know faculty, staff and leadership on a personal level. Walk around, grab coffee and learn about their lives outside of work. Personal connections build trust. Strategic engagement, tailored to your organization’s strengths and donors’ interests, is also key. Platzer developed a “tiered engagement system” with five levels, from volunteer opportunities up to serving on the board of trustees. As donors move up the tiers, they build greater affinity and make larger gifts. Fundraisers should work with their marketing and alumni relations teams to create targeted engagement pathways. Meet regularly to discuss top donor prospects and how to plug them into existing events and volunteer roles. Explain that highly engaged donors often become the best donors. Building internal relationships and strategic engagement requires work, but the rewards of increased trust, bigger donations, and more faithful donors make the effort worthwhile. Strong partnerships and meaningful involvement are a winning combination.