Our News

As the world’s leading resource for annual giving programs, 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, and through our membership program, which provides ongoing access to professional development.

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


Webinar: Rethinking Phone Strategies

July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm ET

For decades, phone calls from students and volunteers have been an important way for educational institutions to connect with alumni and parents and to solicit donations for their annual funds. But changes in the way people communicate have presented a major challenge for phone programs in recent years. While low contact and response rates have led some organizations to eliminate calling, others have viewed technology as an opportunity to rethink the purpose and function of their phone programs altogether. Learn more or register now.


FREE Live Webinar: Introduction to Annual Giving

July 31, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm ET

Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned educational fundraising professional, it’s important to have a basic understanding of “annual giving”. This plenary session will provide you with an overview of the annual giving space, including its fundamental purpose, its key processes, and its unique terminologies, tools, and techniques. It’s also a great starting point for new AGN Members who are exploring AGN’s training curriculum. Learn more or register now.


Featured Job: Associate Director of Annual Giving at St. Lawrence University

Reporting to the Director of Annual Giving, the Associate Director of Annual Giving is responsible for leading University Advancement’s athletic engagement and fundraising efforts. In partnership with Athletic Department staff, they are charged with developing and managing The Scarlet & Brown Club to drive engagement, philanthropy, and mentorship. The Associate Director, who will serve as a primary campus liaison for the Club, will work closely with the Athletic Director, coaches and volunteers on athletic-dedicated fundraising initiatives and projects, including appeals, giving challenges, etc., while serving as a conduit for critical fundraising project information to the major and planned giving staff. S/he will also plan, coordinate and staff strategic athletic-affinity events both on- and off-campus, and as a volunteer management expert, may help manage at least one Reunion milestone annually. Learn more.


Workshop: Developing Your Annual Fund Plan

August 12, 2025 11:30am - 4:00pm ET

Running a successful annual giving program begins with a good plan. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re in the process of refining your plan, the transition from one fiscal year to the next is an ideal time to finalize your strategy. Establishing the right goals, creating the right calendar, and allocating your limited resources in the right way will not only help you focus, but it will empower others to support your efforts. When developed correctly and communicated clearly, good plans provide a road map for success and pave the way for smooth execution, better results, and higher ROI. Learn more or register now.


Q3 Annual Giving Directors Forum

August 14, 2025 11:30am - 4:00pm ET

Annual giving leaders today are facing many challenges and a continuously changing landscape. New technology, staff turnover, economic uncertainty, and many other issues sit front and center as annual giving program leaders tackle the ongoing tasks of running their programs, engaging donors, and generating annual support for their institutions. But you don’t need to go it alone! Learn more or register now.


Article: Explaining Your Work (U. of South Florida)

There’s a lot of people who don’t really understand what it is that educational advancement professionals do. And this doesn’t just apply to people who work outside of the field. It can also be the case within advancement shops, when staff in one department don’t fully appreciate what those in other departments do. Whether it’s in a small shop, in a large program, or somewhere in between, it’s important for different units to understand one another if they’re going to be able to work together effectively. Click to continue reading


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!