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Benjamin Ligas
Associate Director of Major Giving at Boston College
Professional Background
Benjamin Ligas is a seasoned fundraiser who has built a robust career dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students. With over ten years of progressively responsible development experience, Benjamin has developed a keen ability to engage in annual fundraising, leadership giving, major gifts, and planned giving conversations. His journey within the realm of institutional advancement has equipped him with the tools and strategies necessary to drive significant funding initiatives and foster meaningful donor relationships.
Through his various roles at prestigious institutions such as Boston College and Trinity College in Hartford, Benjamin has honed his skills in leadership, management, and effective gift closure. His commitment to the mission of educational advancement has empowered him to lead teams and initiatives that prioritize student success and access to quality education. Furthermore, Benjamin's previous positions have provided him with insights into the diverse facets of fundraising, allowing him to seamlessly navigate major gifts and annual giving campaigns.
Education and Achievements
Benjamin Ligas's solid educational background has laid the foundation for his successful career in development and fundraising. He earned his Master of Business Administration (MBA) with honors in Management from the esteemed Boston College's Wallace E. Carroll Graduate School of Management. This academic achievement not only reflects his dedication to professional excellence but also enhances his capacity for strategic decision-making in the dynamic field of fundraising.
Prior to earning his MBA, Benjamin graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Russian Studies from Hamilton College. This diverse educational background enables him to approach challenges with a unique perspective and a broad understanding of global issues.
Notable Positions Held
Benjamin's extensive role at Boston College places him at the forefront of major fundraising initiatives. As the Associate Director of Major Giving, he spearheads vital efforts to cultivate relationships with high-net-worth donors, ensuring that their contributions align with the institution’s goals. His previous positions at Boston College, including Assistant Director of Leadership Giving, Associate Director of Annual Giving, and Assistant Director of Annual Giving, underscore his deep roots in the advancement landscape and his ability to foster enduring connections with alumni and supporters.
His earlier experience at Trinity College as the Assistant Director of Annual Giving provided him with invaluable insights into donor engagement strategies and academic fundraising best practices.
Early Involvement in Fundraising
During his time at Hamilton College, Benjamin laid the groundwork for his future career in fundraising. He was an active member of the Class of 2014 Senior Gift Committee, contributing to the collective fundraising efforts of his graduating class. Additionally, he served as a Summer Research Fellow and Student Manager of the Phonathon Program, where he demonstrated his ability to engage peers in fundraising efforts while simultaneously promoting fellowship and connection within the college community.
His involvement as an Annual Fund Intern and Student Caller in Hamilton College’s Phonathon Program further underscores his early dedication to the mission of educational philanthropy. Through these roles, he developed strong communication skills and an understanding of how to effectively connect with potential donors.
Contributions and Impact
Benjamin Ligas is not just a fundraiser; he is a passionate advocate for student success and educational advancement. His dedication extends beyond mere dollar figures; he focuses on crafting relationships that will have a long-lasting impact on students' lives. He understands that fundraising is about storytelling, engagement, and building a community that believes in the mission of education.
With his strategic approach to donor relations, Benjamin is adept at recognizing opportunities for collaboration and innovation in fundraising practices. His experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective on how higher education institutions can navigate the complex landscape of fundraising while maintaining a steadfast commitment to their core values.
In a constantly evolving environment, Benjamin's proactive initiatives and commitment to excellence ensure that he remains at the cutting edge of fundraising practices. His ability to adapt and grow within the sector speaks volumes about his professionalism and skill set.
Future Goals
Looking ahead, Benjamin Ligas aims to continue expanding his expertise in the field of institutional advancement while remaining rooted in his mission to create opportunities for the next generation of students. He is eager to contribute to and lead innovative fundraising strategies that enable educators and institutions to thrive amidst challenges. With a focus on collaboration and relationship-building, Benjamin is committed to making a significant impact that extends beyond financial contributions to foster a culture of philanthropy in education for years to come.
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