Certification

AGN’s certification program provides newcomers and rising leaders with a foundation for developing productive annual giving strategies. Led by industry experts, participants engage in a structured and practical learning experience. Upon completion of the 12-week program, participants will have developed a firm understanding of the core concepts of annual giving and how to apply them at their own institutions.

  • The program begins with an introductory meeting and an individual needs assessment.
  • Each participant is paired with a dedicated coach/advisor who works with them one-on-one throughout the program to guide their learning experience, assess their progress, and provide feedback.
  • Every module incorporates instructional content, independent work assignments, and skill development meetings. 
  • Upon successfully finishing the program, participants (and their sponsors/supervisors) receive a written summary of their progress and a certificate of completion.

 

Curriculum Overview

Module 1: Introduction to Annual Giving

Learn about the important role that annual giving plays within educational institutions, ways to think about prospective donor populations, tools for soliciting gifts, and methods for evaluating your efforts. Then take part in an individual needs assessment and meet with your coach/advisor to discuss how to get the most of the program modules that lie ahead.

Module 2: Segmentation

Learn how to segment donor populations based on their relationship with the institution, gift potential, or individual interests, and how to develop personalized communications and appeals that will inspire them to give. Then complete an assignment that applies what you learned to your own work and meet with your coach/advisor to discuss key takeaways.

Module 3: Planning

Learn how to create an effective plan for your annual giving program including setting goals, developing calendars, integrating efforts, and communicating your activities to others. Then complete an assignment that applies what you learned to your own work and meet with your coach/advisor to discuss key takeaways.

Module 4: Analysis 

Learn how to calculate key performance metrics, interpret outcomes and trends, incorporate external feedback and information, and translate key findings into actionable strategies. Then complete an assignment that applies what you learned to your own work and meet with your coach/advisor to discuss key takeaways.

Module 5: Collaboration

Learn about the various organizational structures of annual giving and advancement programs, where to look for internal and external partners, why collaboration is important and how to improve it. Then complete an assignment that applies what you learned to your own work and meet with your coach/advisor to discuss key takeaways.

Module 6: Engagement

Learn how to engage donors through various communications, volunteer opportunities, events and other activities, and how to measure and evaluate your efforts. Then complete an assignment that applies what you learned to your own work and meet with your coach/advisor to discuss key takeaways.

Final Review & Evaluation

Meet with your coach/advisor to review lessons learned as the final step in your certification.

For more information, please email us at [email protected] or call 888.407.5064