How to cultivate diverse, young fundraising talent for the future

In her executive roles on college campuses, Karen Cochran has championed diversifying the fundraising industry.

Across the board, nonprofit organizations are experiencing a shift in donor demographics.

As young people and donors of color are showing up in greater numbers, the fundraising profession should mirror these trends to better reflect the communities they serve. One of the best ways to do that is to develop a pipeline for homegrown talent—especially among our nation’s college campuses. And to introduce students to the fundraising professional with real, hands-on experience. 

Several years ago, Rutgers University launched a full-time summer internship with its Foundation, where students worked alongside industry leaders and in the classroom for hands-on experience and relationship building—a key skill in the field. The interns gained valuable experiences to help them enter the field of fundraising, alumni engagement, or nonprofit management.

In a previous role at the University of Central Florida, Karen oversaw the launching of an Advancement Fellows Program to nurture the next generation of fundraising leaders. Recruiting students from all backgrounds, income levels, and genders, the program introduced them to the world of philanthropy and provided them with high-impact experiences and insights. 

Throughout an academic year, the Fellows learned about all different aspects of advancement, spanning research, cold calls, and stewardship assignments with full access to senior leaders in the Foundation, Fellows received a first-hand look at the challenges that organizations faced from both internal and external points of view.

Both the Rutgers University program and the UCF Advancement Fellows program are designed to provide a glimpse into the future of fundraising as a career choice.

As higher education institutions become more diverse, so do their alumni and donors. Without a plan to diversify development offices, colleges and universities risk missing opportunities to raise money from these loyal grads. 

Hear it first hand

Derreasha Jones, a young professional fundraiser, shares why it's important for leaders to help cultivate the next generation of fundraisers.