Using Premiums in Appeals

Includes a Live Web Event on 07/23/2026 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

OVERVIEW

Offering token gifts or “premiums” in order to incentivize alumni, parents and friends to donate has become a common practice for many school annual giving programs. And while this tactic can often boost response, it also comes with potential risks and compliance requirements that need to be considered. When properly planned and incorporated into appeals, premiums can not only help increase giving, but can also help cultivate a sense of community.

Register now for your entire team to learn how to incorporate premiums into your fundraising appeals in an appropriate and effective way.

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

Prefer to pay by check? Complete this form and we'll send you an invoice.

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.

Karras Mayes

Associate Director, Annual Giving at University of Houston

Karras Mayes currently serves as the Associate Director of Annual Giving at the University of Houston. She has previously led programs at Prairie View A&M University. Her other experience includes youth development and educational programming with. Karras holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Prairie View A&M University and is pursuing a Master of Science in Marketing at the University of Houston.

Diane Wikso

Sr. Associate Director, Marketing and Annual Giving at University of Delaware

Diane Wikso currently serves as the Sr. Associate Director, Marketing and Annual Giving at the University of Delaware. She previously held roles in programming and student development within the University of Delaware Honors Program. Her other experience includes non-profit campaign management and special events at healthcare philanthropy organizations. Diane holds an Honors B.A. in Spanish and Political Science and a Master of Public Administration in Community Development and Non-Profit Management, both from the University of Delaware.

Maureen Plover

Associate Director of Annual Giving for Integrated Marketing at Carnegie Mellon University

Maureen Plover currently serves as the Associate Director of Annual Giving for Integrated Marketing at Carnegie Mellon University. She has previously led programs at Alvernia University. Her other experience includes community engagement and campus ministry roles within the non-profit sector. Maureen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology, Political Science, and Psychology from Alvernia University, a Master of Arts in International Peace & Conflict Resolution from Arcadia University, and a Master of Philosophy in Intercultural Theology & Inter-Religious Studies from Trinity College Dublin.