Use the resources in this launch guide to improve academic partners’ storytelling skills, comfort speaking with donors, and trust in development staff.
Nothing is more compelling to today’s top donors than hearing about new research and initiatives from the individuals who will be leading them. As a result, deans, department chairs, and faculty members are key partners for development staff—they can speak in deeper detail and with more enthusiasm about these projects than anyone else.
However, many of these crucial partners are unaccustomed to presenting their work to donors. Faculty members are often reluctant to partner with development staff because they are asked to participate in conversations that seem unfamiliar or uncomfortable.
Over time, practice will ensure that deans and department chairs are comfortable sharing their work with donors and willing to work with advancement staff.
This resource is part of the Achieve Scale, Sustainability, and Impact in Principal Gifts Roadmap. Access the Roadmap for stepwise guidance with additional tools and research.
“Donors everywhere are much more strategic and thoughtful about their giving. They want to see data and outcomes. They constantly ask ‘Can you show me the numbers?’”
Heidi McCrory
Vice President, College Relations
Kenyon College
Storytelling workshop overview
Presenter: Advancement leadership
Suggested audience: Deans or department chairs paired with frontline fundraisers who work directly with their divisions
Duration: One hour
Venue: Conference room or classroom with tables for practicing in pairs or in small groups
Resources for workshop facilitators
Download one or all three of the workshop resources in order to more easily facilitate a discussion about the role storytelling has in advancement.
Hosting a storytelling workshop enables advancement leaders to help faculty members practice and improve their donor-facing pitch.
Use this presentation for strategies around considering your audience, donor investor terms, and establishing ground rules for feedback.
Talking Points for Workshop Facilitators
Download the talking points for the introductory presentation.
This resource requires EAB partnership access to view.
Access the tool
Learn how you can get access to this resource as well as hands-on support from our experts through Advancement Advisory Services.
Learn More