Our News
As the world's leading resource for annual giving programs, AGN helps educational institutions develop sustainable sources of philanthropic support. We’re proud to have served thousands of colleges, universities, and independent schools through our research, training, and consulting services, as well as our membership program, which provides ongoing access to professional development.
Read below for our latest news, upcoming events, and more!
Live Webinar:
Maximizing Direct Mail
April 16, 2026 12:00 pm–1:30 pm ET
Direct mail is a cornerstone of annual gift fundraising. Despite the evolution of new media and technology, direct mail continues to be a primary driver of donors and dollars for most institutions. Understanding (and regularly revisiting) the basics of segmentation, messaging, timing, production, and analysis will help to ensure that your appeals stand out and resonate with your prospective donors.
Register now.
Workshop: Writing Appeals
April 23, 2026 11:00am–4:30pm ETWriting is one of the most important skills a fundraiser can possess. At the same time, AI can assist the writing process by helping to initiate ideas, create drafts, and revise copy. Understanding the basics of structure, composition, and development, and how to properly leverage AI to make the writing process more efficient, can ultimately help you write appeals that your prospects will open, appreciate, and respond to with a gift. Register now.
Featured Job: Executive Director
of Individual Giving
Washington University in St. Louis is seeking an Executive Director of Individual Giving in Medical Advancement to serve as the strategic leader responsible for driving sustainable growth in annual and leadership-level philanthropy among grateful patients and friends through Individual and Community Fundraising. Learn more.
Live Webinar: Boosting Athletic Support
April 30, 2026 12:00 pm–1:30pm ETWhether your school has nationally ranked teams or simply offers club and intramural sports, athletics can be an important fundraising priority for educational institutions. While each program may have its own opportunities and challenges, the strategies can often be universal. Understanding and implementing the best practices while incorporating the latest techniques tailored to your athletic programs will ensure that volunteers, donors, and fans stay engaged, excited, and supportive. Register now.
Live Webinar: Conducting A/B Tests
May 7, 2026 12:00 pm–1:30pm ETHow do you know what’s working and what’s not in your fundraising appeals? One way to find out is through A/B tests. By testing the variables in your appeals—envelopes, signatories, subject lines, ask amounts, and more—you can collect data that show what’s resonating with different donor segments. Doing so will help you develop effective strategies and make the most of your resources, but it will ensure that your donors receive appeals that are fresh, meaningful, and compelling. Register now.
Featured Job: Director of Annual Giving-OU Health Campus
The University of Oklahoma Health Campus is seeking a Director of Annual Giving to develop and execute a comprehensive annual giving program across its academic colleges and centers. This role leads multi-channel fundraising efforts—including direct mail, digital solicitations, social media, and Giving Day initiatives—to drive participation and philanthropic support. Learn more.
Workshop: Developing Your
Annual Fund Plan
May 14, 2026 11:30 am–4:00pm ET
Running a successful annual giving program begins with a good plan. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re in the process of refining your plan, the transition from one fiscal year to the next is an ideal time to develop your strategy. Establishing the right goals, creating the right calendar, and allocating your limited resources wisely will not only help you focus, but it will empower others to support your efforts. Register now.
Become an AGN Member Today!
This is a great time to invest in professional development for your team. AGN Membership provides advancement staff and volunteers with ongoing access to the training and tools that they’ll need to be successful. Learn more or become a member today!