Whether you graduated decades ago or last year, there are a lot of ways to give back and reconnect with your alma mater. 

 

Unfortunately, many people just don’t know what options exist or where to start. Or they don’t see how their gift will make an impact. 

 

Well, let me tell you– a gift can make a world of difference, no matter how big or small! The beauty of giving back is knowing that your gift or donation can change a life. 

 

Giving is such a big deal, there are entire departments dedicated to fundraising and encouraging people to give back. 

 

There are even people whose entire careers have revolved around fundraising –like today’s guest who has spent over three decades in the giving space! 

 

In this episode, I am talking to the amazing Mike Connell, a lifelong Coug who has devoted most of his career to WSU both professionally and as a student. 

 

Mike is a WSU graduate of ’85 and has been working at WSU for 35 years! Starting as a development coordinator for WSU Spokane, Mike held a range of positions at WSU, including Director of Athletic Development, Senior Director of Gift Planning, Senior Associate Vice President of Individual Giving, and even the CEO of the WSU Foundation. 

 

Now, he’s taking on his newest (official as of December 1) role as the Vice President for Advancement at WSU!

 

As Mike eloquently states, “Clearly, WSU is not just home. It’s literally in my blood.”

 

During our conversation, we talk about all things giving, including the different ways you can support and give back to your university, how they’re keeping up with new technology while maintaining donation levels, what it looks like to stay the course, how the athletic conference changes will affect fundraising (Yep, we go there!), and so much more!

 

Mike’s job is truly just about people –connecting with people, supporting people, and engaging people. And this is truly a unique conversation, so hit that play button to tune in! 

 

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What we discussed:

[00:39] How Mike flipped a coin and ended up at WSU

[2:50] The different positions he’s held at WSU

[5:00] Why WSU is more than home, it’s in his blood

[6:20] Different ways you can support or give back to your university

[9:15] How to tailor what your gift to the university looks like and how it makes an impact

[10:44] How the conference changes will affect WSU fundraising

[12:55] The relationship between CougsFirst! And WSU

[16:14] Interesting research and development project happening at WSU

[18:18] The changes he’s seen at WSU over the years

[20:00] How WSU has a presence in every county in Washington State

[24:00] How gifts and donations can change someone's life

[28:29] How you can best support WSU

 

Links:

Website: http://alumni.wsu.edu/

Foundation: http://foundation.wsu.edu/

 

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