Date Awarded

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Department

Education

Advisor

Margaret Constantino

Committee Member

James Barber

Committee Member

Patty Purish O'Neill

Abstract

The increasing importance of alumni philanthropic support in higher education makes the understanding of graduate school alumni giving through the lens of a donor vital. Using a phenomenological approach, this case study examined the lived experiences of alumni donors at a private graduate school to gain a deeper understanding of alumni donor motivations, their decision-making processes regarding gifts, and their overall interactions with the institution and its development officer. Criteria for the selection of participants included alumni status, a representation from a variety of career paths, and a philanthropic giving history of $10,000 or more. Participants spanned eight decades of graduation years, from 1950-Present. Alumni were invited to participate in an individual interview, which served as the primary data source. The findings in this case study suggest that a strong sense of community and belonging, a responsibility for giving back and paying forward scholarships received as students, and fulfillment in and thankfulness for their education served as the primary factors in driving philanthropic support. Additionally, being invited back to campus as an alum, feeling meaningfully connected with the school and staff, and having confidence in the impact of their gift significantly impacted alumni donors. These findings illustrate that donor motivation is multifaceted, with philanthropic decisions influenced by a blend of personal experiences, values, and practical considerations. Understanding these motivations can help institutions of higher education tailor their engagement and fundraising strategies to connect more effectively with alumni donors, emphasizing aspects that resonate most with their unique motivations and circumstances.

DOI

https://dx.doi.org/10.25774/w4-djn3-zg95

Rights

© The Author

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