The challenge
Monash University is Australia’s largest university. Established in 1958, Monash is part of Australia’s Group of Eight, a coalition of the Country’s leading research-intensive universities.
Philanthropy Squared’s working partnership with Monash began in 2013 with a definitive and holistic review of the University’s advancement work, staff structure and university culture, followed by strategy development and a review of faculty foundations. The partnership continues to grow and evolve and now includes skills transfer; imparting knowledge, tactical know-how and professional counsel to members of staff, as well as training and coaching for Foundation boards and academics.
The approach
Development managers responsible for securing major gifts have the opportunity to spend one hour every month with Philanthropy Squared director, Frankie Airey. The one-to-one consultations have been designed to address the major gift strategy and methodology as well as identifying the tactical tools needed for real-life scenarios and challenges.
The private coaching sessions are structured to enable a hot-house of ideas to be created and professional growth to be accelerated – addressing the staff members’ strengths and weakness via trusted and open dialogue.
In addition, Philanthropy Squared provides training workshops and coaching for Foundation boards and academic faculties as required. Topics covered range from planning and communications to cultivating donor relationships and working with the professional team.
The result
In just 2016 alone, the Monash University Development team increased giving by approximately 40% in one year. This astounding result is certainly a result of a myriad of factors however, providing staff with the opportunity to upskill and master the craft of major donor development is considered to be a contributing factor.
The combination of consultations with staff alongside academic and Foundation leaders ensures everyone plays their part in building a culture of philanthropy across the University.