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Ellen Mathis
Director of Development at the LSU Foundation
Professional Background
Ellen Fargason Mathis is a dedicated and results-driven fundraising professional who currently serves as the Director of Development at the LSU Foundation. With an unwavering commitment to connecting donors with Louisiana State University (LSU), Ellen plays a pivotal role in enabling significant academic philanthropy that directly impacts students, faculty, and the broader community. Her expertise ranges across major, principal, and planned giving, expanding the reach and efficacy of fundraising initiatives that align with the university's academic mission.
Previously, Ellen held multiple leadership positions within the LSU Foundation, including Director of Development for the College of Art and Design and Director of Development at LSU AgCenter. Her expertise in capital campaign strategic planning, corporate and foundation relations, and team collaboration has made her a respected voice in the academic fundraising community. Notably, Ellen is passionate about fostering deep connections between donors and the academic sectors to enhance the overall impact of fundraising efforts.
Her diverse professional journey includes valuable roles at the Baton Rouge Area Foundation, where she worked as a Project Manager and donor services specialist, as well as internships focused on annual giving and partnership relations at the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. These experiences have enriched her understanding of nonprofit operations and philanthropy, laying the foundation for her current successes.
Education and Achievements
Ellen's educational background is notably robust and focused on developing effective strategies for higher education administration. She earned a Master's Degree in Higher Education/Higher Education Administration from Louisiana State University, where her academic research was focused on deepening ties between the development enterprise and academic and student affairs partners. This unique focus equips her with the insight necessary to address the nuanced challenges of institutional advancement and philanthropy within educational environments.
Furthermore, Ellen graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, specializing in Public Relations from Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College. Additionally, she broadened her global perspective by studying abroad at The American University of Rome, which further shaped her cultural and philanthropic insights.
Notable Achievements
Ellen's work has been recognized within the fundraising community, exemplified by her presentations at CASE District conferences, where she has shared her knowledge on various topics including cross-team collaboration and effective fundraising strategies in challenging times. Her unique insights into impactful travel experiences, like her recommendations for lesser-known sights in Rome, reflect her engaging and approachable presentation style.
Her professional specialties spotlight her multifaceted skill set, which includes:
- Capital campaign strategic planning and frontline fundraising: Crafting effective strategies to drive fundraising success.
- Proposal and grant writing: Developing compelling proposals that resonate with potential donors.
- Corporate and foundation relations and fundraising: Building beneficial relationships with organizations to secure funding.
- Governing and advisory board management: Leading boards effectively for enhanced institutional support.
- Team collaboration and mentoring new professionals: Cultivating future leaders in fundraising by providing mentorship.
- Grants management, oversight, and impact reporting: Ensuring transparency and accountability in grant-related activities.
- Donor services and community foundations: Enhancing donor experience and community engagement.
- Constituency development and communications: Creating meaningful connections with various stakeholder groups.
Ellen’s impact extends beyond traditional fundraising roles; she is committed to fostering partnerships that link donors with the vibrancy of the LSU community. Through her work, she not only raises funds but also builds sustainable relationships that nourish the institution's vision and mission, demonstrating her dedication to academic excellence and philanthropic advancement.
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