Sarah Holtan, PhD sits down with Mike Neiduski, a seasoned professional with a unique approach to higher education fundraising. With a background in both student affairs units and major gift fundraising, Mike brings a multifaceted approach to the table.

They explore parallels between higher education and conservation development, both requiring substantial funding. Mike highlights external challenges like economic factors and internal hurdles such as resistance to change. He emphasizes the power of listening and relationship-building in effective fundraising. They also discuss insights into generational giving trends and practical tactics for successful fundraising. From campus reunions to strategic marketing, the strategies are diverse and effective.

Tune in to this episode, which underscores the need for a long-term cultural shift towards philanthropy, especially for institutions lacking robust alumni bases. The role of technology in streamlining fundraising efforts is also explored. Listen to this conversation and gain valuable insights into the art of higher education fundraising, demystifying the process and understanding the crucial role of readiness in fostering a culture of philanthropy.

Episode Highlights:

07:29 - The fundraising, particularly major gift fundraising, is really rooted in relationships, and how does an individual like me, as a fundraiser, build a relationship between an institution and an individual to help grow that affinity and help them understand the problems and challenges that the institution faces and how do we help them help us solve them.

15:10 - What you don't see is that fundraising is a numbers game. It's a volume game. And so what you don't see in that is the amount of time on the phone and email and whatnot doing outreach, because for every 10 phone calls I make, I get two visits, and that's a pretty good average.

24:40 - Every member of a Board, because it is such a big role in my opinion, has a duty to be a prospector for their institution from a fundraising perspective within their networks, whether that's hosting parties or dinners, or even just through the course of their conversations.

Contact

Sarah Holtan, PhD

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Michael Neiduski

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