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Leading thriving teams: How the Washington State University Foundation is structuring frontline fundraiser positions for retention and recruitment
Journal of Education Advancement & Marketing,
9
(1),
6-15
(2024)
Abstract
The Washington State University (WSU) Foundation undertook a transformative restructuring of frontline fundraiser positions to enhance retention, recruitment and operational efficiency. By addressing key areas such as titles and job descriptions, accountability and productivity and salaries and budgets, the WSU Foundation aimed to create a thriving and equitable work environment for its fundraising teams. Implementing standardised titles and roles, a fixed accountability grid and a revised funding model ensured fairness, clarity and improved resource allocation. Challenges, including communication gaps and salary disparities, were acknowledged and addressed. The restructuring efforts aimed to boost employee retention and professional growth and strengthen relationships with academic leaders and donors. The WSU Foundation's dedication to overcoming obstacles and learning from challenges ultimately led to the successful implementation of the restructuring, benefiting WSU and the communities it serves.
Keywords: fundraising; restructuring; employee retention; recruitment strategies; higher education fundraising; philanthropic campaigns
The full article is available to subscribers to the journal.
Author's Biography
Brooke E. Ledeboer serves as an associate vice president for development at the WSU Foundation, working with colleges, campuses and units across the Washington State University (WSU) system. She is also part of the principal giving team and has over 18 years of experience in development. Previously, Brooke held other positions within WSU, including roles with WSU Spokane and the College of Nursing, and has served in a variety of development roles at both public and private universities in the Pacific Northwest.
Jennifer R. Miltenberger has more than 24 years of experience in development and serves as an associate vice president for development for Washington State University. She has led the advancement efforts for WSU Vancouver for more than a decade and is part of a team who raised US$154M across the WSU System in FY22. Jennifer serves on both the WSU Vancouver and the WSU Foundation executive leadership teams.
Keith Powell is the Senior Proposal Writer for the Washington State University Foundation. Previously, he served as Marketing and Communications Director for I Am Boundless, Inc. and as Director of Principal Gifts Communications for The Ohio State University.
Don Shearer serves as the WSU Foundation's Senior Associate Vice President and COO. Previously, he held various other positions within WSU Advancement including roles with the College of Arts and Sciences and the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture. Prior to joining WSU, he spent a number of years in the construction industry.
