This is a common question in higher education, and our unit at Queens is often known as the "Development Office" given our focus on private fundraising. However, the term University Advancement truly represents our mission to advance the institution in a variety of ways. There is no doubt that private funds are critical to furthering Queens' strategic priorities.  However, before we can expect donations to come in, we focus on three key objectives:

• Effectively communicate with each of our key audiences.  Queens is fortunate to have many positive stories to tell, and it is our job to share these in a clear and timely manner. Our University Relations unit leads this effort through the production of publications, management of the website and the communication to our key constituents, including alumni, friends, students, faculty, parents, volunteers, donors, foundations, board members and the media.
   
• Build relationships that last.  We understand that to encourage people to support our institution, they first need to feel informed, and then they need to feel like they have an opportunity to get involved. That is the focus of our Alumni, Donor & Community Relations unit. As their name implies, they have three primary audiences for whom they look for creative and meaningful ways to engage them in the life of Queens. This involvement is crucial and must be effective before financial support occurs, but it is equally important that it be maintained after an investment is made.
   
• Obtain private support.  The choice to give is an understandably personal decision, and we believe that if we share the Queens message and seek opportunities for involvement, a potential donor will be encouraged to give. Our Development unit helps identify and make proposals to all types of potential donors, including individuals, corporations and foundations.  When gifts are obtained, we then assure that they are properly acknowledged and directed as the donor intends.

On behalf of our entire University Advancement Team, we hope you will find this website valuable as you learn more about our institution, and perhaps consider creative ways you might invest in our future. we hope you will join many others who are making this University one of the finest in the nation.