Mastering Fundraising with Duane Rohrbacher

What happens when a seasoned development leader leans fully into artificial intelligence?

In this episode of Mastering Fundraising, Chris Looney sits down with Duane Rohrbacher, Executive Director of Development at UC Irvine, to explore how AI is already transforming fundraising operations and what leaders must understand to stay ahead .

Duane brings a rare perspective. With a background in higher education administration and years of frontline and operational leadership, he has been actively experimenting with AI tools since their earliest public releases. What began as curiosity quickly became a strategic advantage.

This is not a theoretical conversation about the future. It is a practical discussion about what fundraisers can do right now.

In this episode, you will learn:

Duane challenges fundraisers to move beyond casual experimentation. Instead of using AI for novelty, he argues that professionals must train it intentionally, integrate it into workflows, and treat it as a strategic partner.

At the same time, he makes something equally clear: AI does not replace relationships. It enhances preparation. It strengthens follow up. It improves discipline. But major gift work still demands in person engagement, active listening, and authentic human connection.

For leaders wondering whether AI belongs in fundraising, this conversation provides clarity. For those already experimenting, it offers direction.

If you care about efficiency, accountability, and staying competitive in a rapidly changing field, this episode is essential listening.

Listen now and consider one simple question:

Are you using AI as a novelty tool, or are you building it into your operating system?