AI Across Advancement-AI Across Advancement

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In the "AI Across Advancement" webinar, experts from Bryant University, Skidmore College, Dartmouth, and Bay Path University discussed integrating AI in advancement operations. Monica Keith opened the session, introducing panelists David Hargadon, Catherine Dare, and Adam Zinkovic. David shared Skidmore’s strategic AI adoption, highlighting its use as a force multiplier in database conversion, prospect research, and portfolio management. Skidmore employs AI responsibly with robust policies, emphasizing collaboration and institutional alignment. They use AI for data synthesis and enhancing board engagement through custom GPTs.<br /><br />Catherine presented Dartmouth’s AI ecosystem, focusing on AI tools like Gamma for workshops, custom ChatGPT models for career advising, and Airtable’s Omni conversational AI for managing data workflows without coding. Dartmouth balances AI use with data security, human oversight, and integration into career services to assist alumni and students.<br /><br />Adam showcased Bay Path’s autonomous AI engagement officers (VEOs) from GiveSys that manage large donor portfolios independently, enhancing personalized fundraising communications and expanding team capacity. These AI officers engage donors via texts, emails, and video, yielding significant fundraising returns with minimal opt-outs.<br /><br />Overall, the panel emphasized AI’s role as an enabler to increase efficiency, capacity, and personalization in advancement, underscoring responsible use, policy development, cross-institutional collaboration, and the continued importance of human expertise.

Keywords

AI in advancement

Bryant University

Skidmore College

Dartmouth

Bay Path University

AI tools

fundraising automation

data security

human oversight