Our News

As the industry's most respected community of annual giving professionals, AGN helps educational institutions develop sustainable sources of philanthropic support. We’re proud to have served thousands of colleges, universities, and independent schools through our research, training, and consulting services, as well as our membership program, which provides ongoing access to professional development.

Read below for our latest news, upcoming events, and more!


BAG Awards Sample Showcase

March 5, 2026 12:00–1:00 pm ET

Now in its 8th year, AGN’s “Best in Annual Giving” (BAG) Awards recognizes the great work of annual giving programs at educational institutions across the industry. Hundreds of entries each year include direct mail appeals, emails, scripts, stewardship pieces, volunteer materials, advertisements, giving day and crowdfunding campaigns, challenges, videos, and more. Winners are selected based on their quality, innovation, and overall effectiveness. Read more.


Live Webinar: Recognizing Donors Publicly

February 12, 2026 12:00–1:30 pm ET

Among the sweetest sights and sounds is one’s own name. That’s why recognizing donors is such an important aspect of their cultivation and stewardship. For annual giving programs, which deal with large populations and gifts of all sizes, it becomes especially important to acknowledge donors publicly and in meaningful ways. Doing so lets them know that they are appreciated and inspires their continued philanthropic support. Register now.


Featured Job: Director of Annual Giving

Emma Willard School is seeking a Director of Annual Giving to lead the strategy, execution, and growth of a comprehensive annual giving program that strengthens alumnae participation and advances the financial sustainability of the School through the Emma Fund. The role will serve as a key ambassador for Emma Willard’s mission while promoting inclusive, data-driven fundraising practices that engage a diverse community of supporters. Learn more.


Workshop: Frontline Gift Officers

February 19, 2026 11:00 am–4:30 pm ET

The role of a gift officer is to qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward leadership donors on behalf of your institution.  Understanding your role, and knowing what to do before, during, and after a prospect meeting, will not only help you to engage prospects in more productive conversations, but it will help to strengthen relationships, raise sights, and secure increasing levels of support for years to come. Register now.


Featured Job: Senior Director of Annual Giving, Tuck School of Business

The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College is seeking a Senior Director of Annual Giving to provide strategic and operational leadership for one of the most distinctive and participation-driven annual giving programs in higher education. This role will sustain and thoughtfully expand Tuck’s deeply rooted culture of alumni engagement, emphasizing meaningful relationships, shared responsibility, and long-term commitment to the School’s mission.  Learn more.


Live Webinar: Increasing Alumni Participation

February 26, 2026 12:00 pm–1:30 pm ET

Calculated as the percentage of graduates who donate to their alma mater each year, alumni participation is a high priority for annual giving programs. 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. Register now.


Become an AGN Member Today!

This is a great time to invest in professional development for your team. AGN Membership provides advancement staff and volunteers with ongoing access to the training and tools that they’ll need to be successful. Learn more or become a member today!