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Allison Kerivan
Director Of Annual Giving at Bentley University
Professional Background
Allison Kerivan is a highly experienced Annual Giving Director who has made significant contributions to the field of development within both higher education and the arts. With a strong commitment to nonprofit organizations, Allison has cultivated a diverse skill set encompassing fundraising, event management, public speaking, and editing. Through her roles in various esteemed institutions, she has demonstrated her capability in Annual Giving, Major Gifts, and Corporate Relations, underscoring her expertise in effective fundraising strategies and donor engagement.
Allison’s career trajectory showcases her dedication to supporting educational missions and enhancing the arts. As the Director of Annual Giving at Bentley University, she plays a pivotal role in fostering relationships with alumni and potential donors, ensuring the university's growth and sustainability. Her experience in managing development efforts reflects her ability to strategize and execute successful fundraising campaigns that resonate with varied audiences.
Prior to her role at Bentley University, Allison served in multiple capacities that honed her skills in volunteer management and event coordination. For instance, her position as the Senior Associate Director of Volunteer Management at Wheaton College (MA) allowed her to cultivate a robust volunteer program, demonstrating her capacity to engage and mobilize community support effectively.
Education and Achievements
Allison possesses a solid educational background that has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for her professional endeavors. She obtained her Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Nonprofit Management from Villanova University. This advanced degree reflects her commitment to understanding the nuances of nonprofit operations, donor behavior, and resource management, and it has undoubtedly contributed to her effectiveness in various roles across multiple organizations.
In addition to her master's degree, Allison earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Public Relations, French, and International Studies from Penn State University. The diverse study fields underscore her well-rounded educational foundation, enabling her to approach challenges from multiple perspectives and connect with stakeholders across different backgrounds.
Key Roles and Contributions
Over the years, Allison has held several significant positions that highlight her versatility and commitment to excellence in fundraising and event coordination. Her tenure as Friends of Art Manager at the Davis Museum at Wellesley College involved curating programs that not only raised funds but also educated and engaged the community in the arts. As the Corporate Relations and Events Manager at Telfair Museums, she fostered partnerships that enriched the museum's programming while ensuring that corporate sponsors recognized the value of their contributions.
Allison's early career included roles such as Enrollment Events Manager at the Savannah College of Art and Design and Event Coordinator at High Beam Events, where she developed her proficiency in event planning and execution. Her experience as the Undergraduate and Recent Graduate Coordinator at Harvard University allowed her to build a strong connection between recent graduates and their alma mater, a testament to her ability to bridge gaps and cultivate lasting relationships.
Throughout her journey, Allison has consistently demonstrated a focused commitment to the missions of her employers and the communities they serve. Her strategic mindset and ability to leverage connections have empowered her to achieve impactful results in the various organizations she has worked with.
Achievements
Allison's career is dotted with numerous achievements that underscore her impact. From successfully increasing annual giving rates to fostering robust volunteer networks, her contributions have set new benchmarks in the institutions she has served. Her adeptness at organizing large-scale fundraising events has not only brought in significant revenue but has also enhanced visibility and engagement within the community, uniting donors and beneficiaries alike in meaningful ways.
Allison's commitment to nonprofit organizations extends beyond traditional fundraising. She has also championed public speaking initiatives that advocate for the arts and education, using her platform to amplify important narratives and inspire others. Her editing skills have also been instrumental in producing compelling communication materials that effectively convey the missions of the organizations she represents.
In conclusion, Allison Kerivan is a well-rounded professional whose extensive experience in annual giving and nonprofit management positions her as an invaluable asset in the field of development. With a strong educational foundation and a wealth of practical experience, she continues to make significant contributions to both higher education and the arts, driving positive outcomes and inspiring others to engage in philanthropic efforts.