Increasing Alumni Participation

Includes a Live Web Event on 02/26/2026 at 12:00 PM (EST)

Early Bird Discount: Register by January 30th and save $100!

OVERVIEW

Calculated as the percentage of graduates who donate to their alma mater each year, alumni participation is a high priority for annual giving programs at most colleges, universities and independent schools. However, the industry has seen a decline in participation for the past several decades. Setting clear goals, developing effective strategies, and tracking results are key when it comes to increasing alumni participation rates and creating a sustainable source of philanthropic support for educational institutions over the long term.

WHAT YOU GET

Understanding of current trends and best practices
Insight into how other programs approach their work
Examples that you can incorporate into your own strategies
Chance to submit questions and chat with colleagues
Copies of all event materials
Opportunity to earn CFRE credit

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Dan Allenby (Host)

President & Founder | Annual Giving Network

Dan Allenby is an author, speaker, and consultant who has worked with educational institutions for over 25 years to improve their fundraising results. An internationally-recognized expert on annual giving, he is the recipient of CASE’s prestigious “Crystal Apple” award for teaching excellence. He is principal and founder of Annual Giving Network and previously led annual giving and membership programs at Boston University, Tufts University, Georgetown University, and the National Geographic Society.

Grace L. Castro

Senior Director, Lead Generation & Annual Giving Programs at the University of Florida

Grace L. Castro currently serves as the Senior Director, Lead Generation & Annual Giving Programs at the University of Florida. She has previously led programs at the Southern Scholarship Foundation. Her other experience includes development and student affairs. Grace holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and a Master’s Degree in Mass Communication/Media Studies from the University of Florida.

Dana Suther

Director of Strategic Solicitations at Kansas State University Foundation

Dana Suther currently serves as the Director of Strategic Solicitations at Kansas State University Foundation. She has previously led programs at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School. Her other experience includes retail administration. Dana holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Public Relations from Kansas State University.

Brittney Cunningham

Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni at Stetson University

Brittney Cunningham currently serves as the Senior Associate Director of Annual Giving and Young Alumni at Stetson University. Her other experience includes marketing, volunteer work and teaching. Brittney holds a B.B.A. in Marketing from the University of North Florida and an M.B.A. from Stetson University.