On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent welcomes Patrick Hewett, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Endicott College. Patrick reflects on his journey through independent schools and higher ed advancement and explores how fundraisers can meet today’s challenges with value-driven, cause-based engagement strategies.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Peter Wilch, Senior Vice President for University Advancement at Loyola Marymount University. Peter reflects on his first-gen college experience, a career shaped by mentorship, and how strong teams and shared wins power long-term fundraising success.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Marie Schultz, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations at the University of Texas at Arlington. Marie shares her path from student worker to advancement leader, reflecting on 27 years at UC Riverside and her bold leap to lead UTA’s first-ever campaign.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Richard P. Virgin, Vice President for University Advancement at the University of San Diego. Richard shares his experiences leading advancement in Catholic higher education, offering insights on mission-driven fundraising, team building, and the evolving expectations of donors.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Richard P. Virgin, Vice President for University Advancement at the University of San Diego. Richard shares his experiences leading advancement in Catholic higher education, offering insights on mission-driven fundraising, team building, and the evolving expectations of donors.

Brent talks to Ashley Budd, Senior Marketing Director at Cornell University, about her journey from student ambassador to advancement leader, sharing insights on digital marketing and email strategy. They discuss the importance of authenticity, empathy, and effective alumni engagement in building long-term relationships.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Thomas Chaves, Vice President for Advancement at Albright College, who shares his journey from an early interest in computer science to a career in higher education advancement. Starting with his first exposure to programming on a TRS-80 computer, Thomas describes how his tech-savvy background led him from AT&T to a 17-year tenure at SCT (now Ellucian), where he helped organizations adapt to new advancements in data systems and mobile-based technology. Thomas reflects on his return to Albright, where he directs advancement strategies that support both financial stability and enrollment goals. He emphasizes the role of teamwork and collaboration in implementing new systems, solving financial challenges, and creating an integrated approach to advancement and enrollment. A dedicated runner who completed a marathon in every state, Thomas also shares his journey as a long-distance athlete and his transition to biking. Brent and Thomas conclude the episode by discussing how technology and personal resilience drive innovation in higher education.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent sits down with Michael Bor, co-founder and CEO of the Endowment Project. Michael discusses the challenges and successes of fundraising in public education, sharing inspiring stories of how targeted investments are reshaping schools with limited resources. He highlights the importance of community support and grassroots fundraising, revealing how even modest donations can lead to monumental changes in students' lives. Tune in!

In this segment, Rita Walters reflects on attending the first RAISE conference and how it inspired her to bring energy and new ideas back to her organization. She shares insights into the impact of digital platforms and the importance of building authentic relationships in fundraising. Rita also discusses the challenge of scaling outreach with a small team and large alumni base, emphasizing the potential of AI to enhance personalization. Finally, Brent and Rita highlight the importance of human-centered outreach and authenticity in development work.

Brent sits down with Wesley Stewart, Senior Associate Vice President of Development at the University of Oregon

“Education is the elevator up to a more fulfilling and rewarding life and even a longer and healthier life. But inequitable access to education is a major hurdle, and philanthropy can help overcome that barrier.” On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Adam Wise, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement at UMass Boston. Adam is a seasoned leader with a bold vision, and there’s much to gain from his insights throughout this conversation. Adam dives into the challenges and rewards of restructuring a university advancement office, reflecting on the decisions that transformed UMass Boston's fundraising efforts. He shares candid thoughts on the hurdles he faced, the strategic risks he took, and the incredible results that followed, including doubling fundraising in just one year. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the power of a unified team. Tune in to hear Adam's journey and the lessons he's learned along the way.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent sits down with Matt Ter Molen, Vice President for Institute Advancement at RPI. Matt has been described by colleagues as “the kind of leader everyone wants to work for and with.” Matt’s career journey is as inspiring as it is diverse, from earning his pilot’s license in high school; to serving as a beekeeping extension agent in Honduras with the Peace Corps; to advancing through leadership roles at Northwestern, Syracuse, and now RPI. In this episode, Matt shares his insights on trusting the twists and turns of a career, the power of giving 100% to every position you take on, and the ultimate magic of “doing well while doing good” in the nonprofit sector. Matt also reflects on the values instilled in him by his father, a fellow advancement professional, and the enduring importance of service in his life and career. Tune in for an engaging conversation that spans the skies and the fields, and offers deep insights into leadership and personal growth.

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Mark Antonucci, Senior Vice President for Advancement and Strategy at the Rutgers University Foundation. Mark is an “expert-generalist and high-energy pacesetter” and there’s so much to learn from him during this conversation. Mark discusses the driving force throughout the twists and turns of his career: his commitment to cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and active community – on and off campus. On this episode, Mark also reflects on the biggest challenges and rewards of supporting the higher ed mission, and shares his thoughts on how to bridge the divide between the perspectives of major donors and the needs of current and future students. Mark also discusses his leadership philosophy and the dynamic environment at the Rutgers University Foundation, emphasizing the cross-campus efforts that make a community thrive. Tune in!

On this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brent hosts Derek Dictson, Vice President for University Advancement at Colorado State University. Derek shares his journey from the tech industry to leading CSU's advancement efforts, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI and innovative strategies in higher education fundraising.

Since joining KU Endowment, Nancy Jackson has led transformative initiatives in fundraising, leveraging her rich background in higher education and philanthropy. Nancy's journey began in California, where she attended UCLA before facing a life-altering transition to Kansas. Her experiences, from investment banking in San Francisco to raising funds for LA's arts organizations, have shaped her innovative approach. Nancy co-founded Generous Change to address fundraising challenges, focusing on practical strategies and the importance of relationships. Now as Chief Development Officer at KU Endowment, she drives impactful campaigns, fostering a culture of celebration and continuous learning within the organization.

Tom Farrell, Senior Vice President for Advancement at the University of Rochester, leads the university’s efforts to foster relationships with alumni, donors, and partners, securing resources for education, research, public service, and healthcare. Known for his empathetic approach and team-building skills, Tom's unique journey from various roles, including gas station attendant and janitor, enriches his perspective. A Rochester native, Tom leverages his extensive experience from institutions like Dartmouth, Penn, and Illinois, driving the University of Rochester’s mission forward. He prepares for an ambitious new campaign, continuing his impactful advancement work.

Since joining UnityPoint Health, Jake Heuser has brought a wealth of experience and innovation to his role as Vice President of System Philanthropy. Notable achievements include securing multiple seven and eight-figure gifts, such as a $10 million donation, and successfully transitioning from higher education to healthcare philanthropy while driving impactful initiatives and deepening donor connections.

In this episode of the RAISE Podcast, Brian Sischo, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement at NC State University, shares the remarkable story of leading a billion-dollar campaign at Syracuse University. Despite initial recommendations to aim lower, Brian and his team, guided by 'soberly optimistic persistence,' successfully concluded the campaign in 2012 with $1.044 billion. Brian's insights into strategic leadership and fundraising during challenging times offer valuable lessons for advancement professionals.

Roger Divine, Assistant Vice President for Advancement Operations at Pomona College, leads the institution's digital transformation efforts, focusing on leveraging AI and data to enhance alumni engagement and fundraising. With a diverse background in languages, technology, and analytics, Roger has a track record of fostering a data-driven culture and driving significant fundraising achievements.