MAJOR & LEADERSHIP GIFTS & CAMPAIGN FUND

This course provides a rigorous analysis for the design and management of a major, leadership and campaign fundraising program in most nonprofit organizations. This class will examine the strategic skills to incorporate these initiatives into a balanced philanthropic program. From donor acquisition in an Annual Giving Campaign to The Ask for a Leadership Gift in a Capital Campaign, there will be an emphasis on understanding the donor and developing relationships. Students will learn how to identify major gift prospects from a strong annual giving program, build a major gift program, organize fundraising campaigns, establish a timeline, introduce explicit leadership expectations, and develop strategies to maximize the collective resources of volunteer leaders, donors, and colleagues. Students will also explore how to position special gift opportunities within the context of a long-range strategic planning process.

Critical thinking will be encouraged and ethical concepts central to the performance of philanthropic practices will be explored throughout the semester. Finally, the course examines qualities and skill sets of successful major gift officers and campaign fundraising, helping students become familiar and comfortable with the process of working with all development staff to build a strong major gift program, facilitating, and managing the leadership ask, and participating in a comprehensive fundraising campaign.