Division Update to University Senate
The following is the most recent update on University Advancement that was shared with the University Senate. These reports are shared once or twice each month. If you have suggestions for items to include, you can email Frank at frank@humboldt.edu. ------------------ University Advancement – Senate Report Recent projects and successes
The following is the most recent update on University Advancement that was shared with the University Senate. These reports are shared once or twice each month. If you have suggestions for items to include, you can email Frank at frank@humboldt.edu.
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University Advancement – Senate Report
Recent projects and successes
- Marketing & Communications staff have served HSU’s Emergency Operations Center during the COVID-19 response by developing internal messages, writing news releases, responding to media inquiries, maintaining current content, posting and monitoring on social media, developing websites, and more. (See the COVID-19 website, which includes all updates including a summary of the HSU response up until the first day of virtual instruction on March 26.)
- With funding support from HSU’s California Center for Rural Policy, KHSU has begun airing public service announcements related to COVID-19. The spots are focused on health and wellbeing, and feature HSU Nursing Program Director Kim Perris. They can also be heard on six local commercial stations, which have all provided deep discounts for the airtime.
- The HSU Foundation recently committed $140,000 to St. Joseph Health for the purchase of four ventilators. The equipment is needed to provide healthcare to the community, including HSU students and employees, during the COVID-19 response. Funds were drawn from unrestricted donations to the Foundation.
- The Alumni & Engagement Office has sent a series of messages and updates about the COVID-19 response to alumni as well as families of current students.
- The Development Office has begun communicating to current donors about the Student Adversity Fund, which is helping to support students during this time. The fund has recently been used to purchase expanded data plans and internet access for those students who need it, and to purchase more laptop computers for check-out at the Library. Any faculty and staff wishing to give can learn more at the Student Adversity Fund giving page
- The Phone Jacks student callers have begun calling alumni and donors again after a one-month hiatus. The students usually call to solicit gifts as part of annual fund, but at this time are not requesting donations. The calls are to check in, find out how the alum is doing, and share how HSU is responding to COVID-19. The response has been very positive.
Organization and planning
- The Advancement Division is continuing a significant reorganization in order to re-focus on major gifts and plan for a comprehensive campaign. The division is planning to reduce its expenditures in anticipation of additional budget challenges.
- In late February, the HSU Foundation finalized an agreement with an outside firm to conduct a campaign feasibility study. This study will explore donor interest and capacity, potential priorities, and organizational readiness. Originally scheduled to be completed by the end of summer, the timeline is being extended due to travel restrictions and physical distancing requirements.
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Latest PMC Advancement
- Monthly Listening Circles for Faculty and Staff – Starting Thursday, September 5, 2024, 11 am - 12 pmDear Faculty and Staff, RSVP here for the first monthly listening circle for faculty and staff. When: Starting Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 11 am - 12 pm Where: In person at the Library Fishbowl, Library 209, and virtually via this Zoom link.
- Office of Research & Sponsored Programs Foundation Transitions to Division of University AdvancementThe Office of Research & Sponsored Programs Foundation (SPF) is excited to announce its integration into the Division of University Advancement. This strategic move aims to foster greater collaboration and growth opportunities for our faculty & staff research and philanthropic initiatives. Importantly, there will be no change in existing personnel at SPF, and faculty will continue to contact their current support personnel. The offices' location will remain unchanged, maintaining the convenience and consistency our faculty and staff rely on.
- Registration for HSU's 2021 ideaFest Now OpenThe Office of Research, HSU Library, and Marketing & Communications would like to invite you to participate in the 8th Annual HSU ideaFest! Historically, this event has hosted more than 400 students, faculty, and staff from HSU showcasing research, live performances, creative projects, and more!
- Report to University SenateUniversity Advancement – Senate Report Submitted by Frank Whitlatch, VP for University Advancement Recent Activities and Successes • Over the past year, thousands of donors gave more than $6 million through the HSU Foundation and charitable grants in support of HSU students and programs. This included gifts from 3,170 donors, including 1,730 alumni. More than $1.4 million was given to various types of student support programs. Find out more about giving to students and programs at HSU.
- Advancement Plans for Budget ReductionsColleagues, You have likely heard that HSU is planning significant budget reductions in anticipation of an enrollment decline in the fall. The situation is more challenging now given the impact of COVID-19 and the potential for state budget reductions.
- Steve Kinder Joins Development TeamA big welcome to Steve Kinder, who has taken on a new role in Development as the Associate Director of Development, Athletics. Steve started in his new role on Monday, and is focused for now on helping with the Athletics Auction. His new office is in NHW 208. Please take some time to visit with him and welcome him to the team.