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Amanda Lasker
Senior Executive Director for Development, Columbia College and Arts & Sciences at Columbia University in the City of New York
Professional Background
Amanda Lasker is a distinguished professional in the field of fundraising and development, boasting an impressive career dedicated to higher education advancement. With a robust background rooted in the principles of effective volunteer recruitment and management, as well as event management, she has carved out a reputation as a leader within the fundraising sector. Amanda's comprehensive experience spans multiple significant roles at Columbia University, where she significantly contributed to driving philanthropic efforts and enhancing engagement strategies for alumni and community stakeholders.
Having served in various capacities at Columbia University's College of Arts & Sciences, Amanda rose through the ranks from an Associate Director role to becoming the Senior Executive Director for Development. Her journey evinces a profound understanding of development initiatives, major gift solicitations, and strategic fundraising campaigns. As a Major Gift Officer, she played a crucial role in cultivating relationships with significant donors, and her efforts in recent alumni and student giving have paved the way for the next generation of supporters to contribute to the university's mission.
Education and Achievements
Amanda's educational journey reflects her commitment to enhancing her expertise in fundraising management and political science. She earned her Master of Science in Fundraising Management from the prestigious Columbia University, solidifying her understanding of the intricacies involved in effective fundraising strategies. Prior to this, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Lehigh University, where her academic foundation was complemented by international insights gained through her studies at the Danish Institute for Study Abroad.
In addition to her impressive academic credentials, Amanda's early experiences at Lehigh University Alumni Association—serving first as an undergraduate intern and later as a graduate intern—enabled her to gain pivotal hands-on experience in alumni relations and fundraising practices from the onset of her career. This foundational experience has undoubtedly contributed to her success and deep understanding of the university's fundraising ecosystem.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Amanda has been recognized for her exceptional leadership in development initiatives, particularly at Columbia University, where she has been instrumental in spearheading innovative fundraising initiatives that have realized substantial financial support for various programs and specialties across disciplines. Her commitment to fostering a culture of philanthropy has resulted in enhanced alumni engagement, setting a benchmark for development practices within higher education fundraising.
Moreover, Amanda's strategic approach to event management has ensured that numerous campaigns not only meet but exceed their fundraising goals, complementing her focus on cultivating long-term relationships with donors and alumni. By engaging volunteers and managing teams adeptly, she has maximized the impact of fundraising events, thus further solidifying the essential role of development efforts in sustaining institutional growth and enhancing the overall student experience.
Amanda Lasker’s contributions to Columbia University and the field of fundraising and development at large are considerable and varied, reflecting her dedication to fostering a thriving community of supporters who are invested in the future of education. She not only champions the causes she believes in, but she also inspires others to support the transformative power of education through philanthropy.
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