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Mara Bernstein
Advancement Associate at IU Libraries
Professional Background
Mara Bernstein is a passionate connector and problem-solver with a rich background in higher education and a strong commitment to promoting inclusion, equity, and justice within the sector. With a robust experience in fundraising and advancement, Mara successfully merges the use of technology with time-honored methods for engaging prospects and stewarding donors. Through her professional journey, she has developed a unique skill set that blends both innovative and traditional approaches to boosting institutional advancement and enhancing the overall educational experience for all students.
Her career journey at Indiana University is marked by several key positions that showcase her dedication and versatility. Mara began as an Admissions Assistant at the Indiana University Maurer School of Law and quickly ascended to the role of Admissions Coordinator, demonstrating her ability to effectively manage admissions processes and contribute to student recruitment initiatives. Her professional journey continued at the Indiana University Foundation, where she served as both Executive Support Specialist and Senior Administrative Assistant for Principal Gifts and International Advancement. In these roles, she honed her skills in administrative support and donor relations, ensuring that philanthropic efforts translated into robust support for university programs and initiatives.
Currently, Mara holds the position of Advancement Associate at Indiana University Libraries. In this role, she plays a pivotal part in cultivating relationships with donors, securing essential funding, and promoting library initiatives that benefit the broader academic community. With a focus on inclusivity and support, Mara works diligently to ensure that all stakeholders feel valued and recognized as integral members of the educational landscape.
Education and Achievements
Mara's academic journey laid a strong foundation for her career. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology, Art History, and Humanities from Kenyon College, where she cultivated a deep understanding of cultural narratives and their impact on society. This diverse academic background spurred her interest in higher education and shaped her worldview as she pursued her Master's Degree in Cultural Anthropology at Indiana University Bloomington. Here, she further developed her analytical skills and ability to engage with complex societal issues, enhancing her capacity to advocate for inclusion and justice within the academic sphere.
In addition to her formal education, Mara's commitment to continuous learning is evident through her involvement with the Fulbright Commission. This experience not only expanded her international perspective but also reinforced her belief in the importance of fostering global connections in the realm of higher education. Mara's strong background in anthropology allows her to approach challenges with a unique lens, emphasizing the importance of cultural context in her work.
Achievements
Mara's career is marked by numerous accomplishments that attest to her skills as an advancement professional. She is known for her innovative approaches to donor engagement, combining traditional fundraising strategies with the latest technological advancements. Her creativity has helped broaden the reach of fundraising campaigns, attracting a diverse array of prospects and benefactors.
In her current role, Mara has played a key part in several successful fundraising initiatives for Indiana University Libraries, ensuring that essential projects receive the financial support they need to thrive. Her dedication to cultivating inclusive spaces within academia benefits not only individual students but the institution as a whole, as she promotes a richer, more diversified academic community.
Mara's work ethic, commitment to progressive values, and strategic mindset make her a respected leader within her organization and across the field of higher education. Her passionate advocacy for inclusion and equity has inspired her colleagues and students alike and continues to drive her ongoing pursuits in this vital sector.
tags':['higher education','fundraising','donor relations','inclusion','equity','justice','Cultural Anthropology','Indiana University','Kenyon College','advancement','problem-solving','technology in education','student recruitment'],
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Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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