Safaniya Stevenson sits down with Daniel Freeman, Chief Development Officer at Gaston Community College, to unpack how a “curiosity-first” approach reshaped alumni engagement. Tapping into years of fundraising experience and his knack for building authentic relationships, Dan shares how he turned passive alumni into active supporters using low-cost, high-impact development tactics. If you're in enrollment marketing or advancement and you're wondering how to spark alumni giving at a two-year institution, this is your must-listen guide.

Guest Name: Dan Freeman, Chief Development Officer, Gaston College

Guest Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dantheeddman/

Guest Bio: After earning his degree in sociology from UNC Charlotte, Daniel Freeman Ed.D entered the collegiate athletics industry to explore his passion for sports, coaching, marketing, and external relationships. His journey continued with an MS in Exercise Science/Sport Management and a Doctorate in Education/Global Sport Leadership, two more stops in athletics fundraising, and then settled into the realm of academic fundraising, where he currently resides. His work in higher education fundraising is focused on individual giving, campaign fundraising, and development leadership & strategy.

Due to the multiple roles Dr. Freeman has held, he considers himself a fundraising generalist with multiple specialties. Those roles have allowed him to experience all elements of a successful advancement department. 

Dr. Freeman is a school record holder in the javelin at UNC Charlotte where he competed on the track and field team. He is a cook, a DIY'er, and a nationally known track and field throws coach.

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Connect With Our Host:
Safaniya Stevenson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/safaniyastevenson/ 

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