UI Foundation/UI Advancement Weekly Update 04.23.21
In higher education, we hear the word “collaboration” frequently, and no less so in the advancement world, especially since we began navigating the coronavirus pandemic. A few weeks ago, in my message, I mentioned the importance of engaging university partners in advancement operations. Earlier this week, I spoke with university leaders and advancement professionals at the University of New Mexico on the same topic, and the subject was integral to the “OneCASE” model recently adopted by our professional association. So, at the risk of sounding repetitive, I am going to address the topic again.
Collaboration is one of our Development Program Core Values for a reason. While the concept may seem painfully obvious, there are many who would say, “collaboration” is the not-so-secret, secret sauce of high-performing advancement programs. At the University of Illinois, our complex matrixed organization makes this core value even more significant, with or without a pandemic. Our multiple universities, university-related organizations, central and decentralized development program leadership and support systems, and layers upon layers of critical partners, amplify the need to be strategic and collaborative beyond measure.
I suspect, if you are still reading, you might be asking, “so what’s your point?” The message today isn’t simply to be a good partner, it is to remind all of us that partnerships are not easy, especially in large organizations. They require a commitment to the value of trust and an openness to engage your advocates and your critics. Differences should not lead to building fences, but bridges that take us to new places together. I’m reminding all of us to remain committed to working with your colleagues, for our universities, and more broadly, for all who benefit from the work we do each day.
In a much different context, I am hopeful that what we saw in our country this week was a sign that Americans are bridge builders. I also believe this week illustrated that when we are resolute and relentless in our pursuit of those things that matter most, and we collaborate and work together, we can achieve great things. For our University of Illinois development teams, that means we should never underestimate the power of strategic, thoughtful, and purposeful collaboration. Work hard at working together and be exemplary bridge builders.
My last comment on this topic is to say, “thank you” to those who sent suggestions about how we can better engage our campus partners/collaborators. I’ve received some great ideas thus far and welcome your continued thoughts.
Have a great weekend, and speaking of not underestimating things, the power of weekends should never be underestimated. I hope you enjoy your days off and have plenty of opportunities to energize your physical and mental well-being.
Best,
Jim