From fragmentation to focus: Benefits of a liaison model for advancement in large decentralised colleges and universities
Abstract
In the evolving landscape of higher education, advancement professionals face increasing pressure to demonstrate impact, foster collaboration and drive philanthropic growth, which is particularly challenging within large, decentralised academic units. This paper presents a case study of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Georgia, which created and implemented a liaison-based development model to address these challenges. Through faculty engagement and cross-functional alignment, supported by a process of strategic sub-branding, the college achieved a 100 per cent increase in fundraising dollars and a sixfold lift in major gifts within one fiscal year. This paper outlines the two years following the appointment of both a new Dean and Sr. Director of Development and Alumni Relations. It addresses the model’s design, implementation and measurable outcomes, and offers actionable insights for advancement leaders seeking scalable and collaborative solutions in complex institutional environments. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
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Author's Biography
Meredith Metcalf is Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Georgia, where she leads a team of 15 staff and a portfolio of 100,000 living alumni. She brings broad experience in development, donor relations and organisational change management from higher education and non-profit sectors. She holds a master’s degree in non-profit management and leadership from the University of Georgia.
Anna Stenport, PhD, is Professor of Communication Studies, Dean of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Georgia, and holds the University of Georgia Foundation Professor in Arts and Sciences, with a cross-appointment in the Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education. She brings three decades of experience as a scholar, educator and higher education administrator, having held previous positions at Rochester Institute of Technology, Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Illinois, Stanford University, and the University of California, Berkeley, alongside appointments at Queen’s University, Canada, and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Sweden.
