In this conversation, Jennifer Porter and John Azoni discuss the critical role of storytelling in fundraising, particularly within higher education. They explore how to connect donors to specific needs, the importance of collaboration across departments, and the impact of authenticity in donor engagement. Real-life examples illustrate how effective storytelling can resonate with donors and drive contributions. The discussion emphasizes the need for fundraisers to be open about challenges and to use data and stories effectively to engage their audience.

🎯 Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Don’t be afraid to tell real, messy stories. Authentic narratives—especially ones that reveal challenges—create stronger emotional connections with donors.
2. Cross-department collaboration enhances storytelling. Fundraising, marketing, and alumni teams should align efforts to maximize storytelling impact and avoid working in silos.
3. Connect donors to people, not just statistics. Specific, human-centered stories resonate more deeply than generic data or institutional updates.
4. Make the donor feel their impact is tangible. Whether through a scholarship, mentorship, or general fund support, donors want to know exactly who and how they’re helping.