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Seth Speyer
Executive Director of Planned Giving at American University
Professional Background
Seth Speyer is a distinguished executive with a robust background in nonprofit management and development. With a career spanning over two decades, Seth has established himself as a leader in planned giving and philanthropy within several prominent organizations. Currently, he serves as the Executive Director of Planned Giving at American University, where he plays a pivotal role in enhancing the university's endowment through innovative planned giving strategies. His ability to connect with potential donors and highlight the impact of their contributions has been instrumental in securing substantial funding for various educational initiatives.
Prior to his current role at American University, Seth held various significant positions that contributed to his comprehensive expertise in fundraising and donor relations. He was the Assistant Vice President of Development, where he was responsible for overseeing major fundraising campaigns and strengthening alumni engagement. His earlier role as Director of Planned Giving involved creating tailored giving options that resonate with donors, ensuring they feel valued and informed about their philanthropic choices.
Seth's experience is not limited to the university setting; he has also worked with prestigious cultural institutions. At The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, he excelled as the Manager of Major Gifts, Endowment, and Planned Giving. In this position, he successfully developed strategies that fostered relationships with significant donors, thereby enhancing the Center's arts programs. Furthermore, Seth's tenure at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum as a Planned Giving Officer showcased his commitment to preserving history and ensuring that crucial narratives are shared with future generations.
Education and Achievements
Seth Speyer's educational foundation is rooted in both business and art history, making him uniquely equipped for his multifaceted career. He holds an MBA in Nonprofit Management from the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles - The Anderson School of Management. This advanced degree has provided him with critical insights into organizational leadership and strategic planning, crucial for navigating the complexities of nonprofit organizations.
Before entering UCLA, Seth earned his Bachelor's degree in Art History from Cornell University. This background not only reflects his appreciation for the arts but also enhances his understanding of cultural institutions and their fundraising needs. His grounding in art history has equipped him with the skills necessary to communicate effectively with artists and patrons alike.
Though his formal education and professional experiences are commendable, Seth's achievements extend beyond traditional benchmarks. He has been recognized for his ability to cultivate strong donor relationships, thereby contributing to the financial sustainability of the organizations he has served.
Notable Achievements
Seth Speyer's career is marked by numerous accomplishments that highlight his contributions to the nonprofit sector. His leadership in planned giving at American University has resulted in a significant increase in both the number and size of planned gifts, ensuring that the institution can plan for a sustainable future. His innovative approaches to donor engagement and education have set new standards within the organization.
At The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Seth's strategic fundraising initiatives not only bolstered major gifts but also solidified relationships with patrons who have a passion for the arts. His work there significantly aided in maintaining the Center’s reputation as a leading cultural institution.
Additionally, during his time with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Seth embraced the profound responsibility of helping individuals contribute to a mission that resonates on so many levels. His efforts in planned giving were crucial for supporting the Museum’s educational programs and outreach efforts aimed at enlightening future generations about the Holocaust.
In every role, Seth has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to making a difference in the nonprofit landscape, further emphasizing the importance of philanthropy in fostering change and growth within the community.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
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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