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SFOS Newsletter
Spring 2008

SFOS initiates development effort

by Teresa Thompson, SFOS Development Officer

Jeremy Kasper

Teresa Thompson.

Editor’s note: Teresa Thompson was hired in January as the development officer for the School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. Teresa works closely with the UAF Development Office and is coordinating SFOS’ efforts to raise money by building relationships with potential donors and by cultivating alliances with current supporters.

Development is a crucial element of any successful school, college or university. SFOS is growing, and as we continue to grow, we continue to face new resource challenges. We can find additional resources to move forward by strengthening the relationships we have with university supporters and fostering new connections through increased communication, donor recognition and a coordinated development plan.

What does development mean? Some think of development simply as fundraising, such as holding a special event, but development is much more than that. In its basic form, development involves engaging people with the cause of an organization, connecting them with an aspect in which they can help, showing them the impact of their contribution and recognizing them for their gift.

Contributions are not necessarily monetary. They may come in the form of volunteer time or expertise, in-kind contributions or by connecting us with people and organizations that may be interested in supporting our mission.

What does it mean for SFOS? We engage people in the important work of SFOS through our exceptional faculty, staff, and students. My purpose as the SFOS Development Officer is to put forth a concentrated effort to enhance our communication with current supporters and identify potential new donors. By building these relationships and providing the opportunity to give, SFOS will continue to grow and prosper.