Development and Alumni Relations | Penn State College of Health and Human Development

Mission

To advance and support the College of Health and Human Development’s mission and strategic priorities by providing opportunities for meaningful engagement of our internal and external constituencies through communication, alumni outreach and philanthropic investment.

Critical Functions

Major gift fundraising
Alumni and APG programming, events, and engagement
Endowment awarding and management and gift acknowledgement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a major gift?: A philanthropic gift of $50,000 or more given to the University.

Do you raise money to help with my research?: We enjoy interacting with faculty and learning about new research areas, projects and ideas but encourage you to talk first with your department head to discuss your funding needs. The development office focuses on soliciting private gifts from individual alumni and friends. If you have questions or need assistance with identifying funding opportunities from foundations or corporations, we can connect you with the University’s Corporate Engagement office or Foundation Relations office.

How can I meet alumni and friends of the College?: Alumni and friends of the College enjoy interacting with our students, faculty and staff in a variety of ways including: Guest speaking in the classroom; participating as volunteer on our Philanthropy Council, Alumni Society Board or Affiliate Program Group (APG); or attending a College or University event. Faculty are also frequently featured in alumni programming.

Who should I contact if I have a lead on a potential donor?: Please contact one of the development team members who can work with you on a strategy for how to engage the prospect. Some of our largest gifts have been secured because of a faculty member’s identification of or relationship with a potential donor.

How can I make a gift to support the College?: Penn State Faculty and Staff Contribution Form. Faculty and staff giving plays an important role in ensuring the College’s success and can also influence gifts and grants from corporations and foundations, which consider faculty and staff giving rates when determining their own support for Penn State. Gifts of all sizes are important and Penn State offers monthly payroll deduction for those who may be interested.