[ We invited Bethany graduates in Communication and Media Arts to report what they were up to, and respond to some questions about how they have used what they learned at Bethany and since. Please feel free to greet, ask questions, and comment. ]
When did you graduate from Bethany, what was your major, and in what, if anything, did you specialize while in school?
I graduated from Bethany in 2009 and my major was Communication. I was very involved with the hockey broadcast/TV crew and writing for Bethany’s campus newspaper, The Scroll. I also enjoyed doing some PA announcing on campus, doing primarily soccer, baseball, and basketball games throughout my college years.
What are you doing now with media/technology?
Currently I'm a Development Officer at Concordia University, St. Paul (focusing on major gift fundraising). Prior to CSP (and serving at St. Croix Lutheran Academy), I spent nearly 10 years with the Minnesota Vikings in premium sales (season tickets) and service. My career path has changed these last several years, but I'll always appreciate and treasure what I learned at Bethany and the lifelong friendships I have...while hearing the One Thing Needful every day!
Have you found any opportunities to use your skills and experience for Gospel outreach?
Yes, my foundation from Bethany (combined with my previous career in sports business) has translated well into fundraising and development. I’m blessed to meet so many kind and generous people in my work. Each day I can hear people’s passions, while speaking about my faith and promoting quality Christian education.
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Discussion
I always admire the skillset - and patience! - of folks who work in Development. That is a tough job (I'm in "the Art World" so there's a high pressure on the Development office in whatever the NFP is...) ;) What advice/principles - for fundraising - could you offer?
Thank you, great question! Yes, you do need a lot of patience, persistence, and follow-up. It's all about building and maintaining relationships - connecting an individual to the mission and vision of the university (or non-profit) and this takes time. Every person is different, every donor is different -- so matching a passion to a university need is interesting & rewarding work! It's fun to see where people give their time and treasures, everyone has their own donor journey.