$1 million in record time
February 06, 2017
UD’s student call center reaches fundraising milestone early for second year in a row
The University of Delaware’s student call center reached a major fundraising milestone at the end of January, hitting $1 million in raised pledges from alumni, parents and donors in record time.
The achievement is the second time in as many years that the call center has hit such high fundraising numbers so early. Whereas five years ago it may have taken 10 or 11 months to reach $1 million, last year the feat was accomplished in a mere eight and a half. This year, callers have broken that record by nearly a month.
As a result, the call center is on track to meet or even surpass their $1.46 million goal for the fiscal year. “That is a testament to the generosity and loyalty of nearly 8,000 call center donors who pledge their support to UD year after year,” according to a representative of the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. “Their contributions truly help make a difference with programs, projects, student finances, research and faculty support.”
In the center, the callers are the key to securing the gifts. Working the phones from morning to night, a team of dedicated, knowledgeable students strive to learn the interests and passions of prospective donors on the other end of the line and guide their much-needed support toward an array of opportunities across campus.
“Students are a major reason for our success,” says program center manager Katie Coats, a UD alumna who spent four years in the center as a student caller. “They build relationships with donors, encouraging them to give back to the programs that matter to them.”
For the students who work in the call center, the phone conversations are a highlight of the job.
“I spoke with someone the other day who was in a certain UD club,” says one student caller. “It’s great to both learn about the University and serve as a resource for parents and alumni.”
Managing the phones has taught the student about the power of philanthropy and how it can be both personal and impactful. Ultimately, the student says, reaching $1 million so quickly is proof that the student call center plays an important role in encouraging alumni, parents and friends to make a difference.
“It was really exciting,” she adds, noting how the center erupted in cheers and high-fives when a key pledge pushed them past the $1 million mark. “When you give back, you can support what matters to you and make it last for future generations.”
Contact Us
Have a UDaily story idea?
Contact us at ocm@udel.edu
Members of the press
Contact us at 302-831-NEWS or visit the Media Relations website