Building an effective advancement program for a residential college: One college’s journey

Between 2014 and the present, Burgmann College, an independent Residential College on the Australian National University campus, has worked to develop its Advancement program from simple beginnings to a systematic approach. In conversation, Principal Sally Renouf and newly appointed Director of Advancement, Amelia Zaraftis will discuss with Global Philanthropic’s Colin Taylor and Chanel Hughes, Burgmann College’s seven year journey from its first fundraising plan to a programmed approach to fundraising that is showing significant dividends in the College’s 50th year.Intended for staff of Residential Colleges at all levels, especially those considering starting an advancement program for the first time, the hour-long interactive discussion will range from the stops-and-starts of early advancement, through forming a compelling Case for Support, all the way to the College’s first solicited gifts and its vision for advancement in the future. The conversation will take in the influence that engagement with senior alumni can bring, the sense of community that regular communication delivers and the role of planning and testing in winning internal support and building organisational confidence.Sally, Amelia, Chanel and Colin look forward to sharing their tips and tricks for navigating these difficult first years in Advancement.