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Forty-two Historically Black Colleges and Universities were represented among the participants in the 2018 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium.
In this photo: Forty-two Historically Black Colleges and Universities were represented among the participants in the 2018 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium.
On Campus

2018 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium

Saturday, July 28, 2018

Delaware State University once again took a leadership role in helping Historically Black Colleges and Universities become stronger in the fundraising and institutional advancement arenas as it hosted the 2018 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium.

Held at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino July 24-27, the symposium attracted 127 participants representing 42 Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

For slideshow images from the symposium, click on the below link:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/48216028@N03/sets/72157699116165214/show

The symposium featured an address by former DSU President Harry L. Williams, who spoke to the gathering in his current capacity as the executive president and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

 “We know our students need resources, so the work that you do is so important,” Dr. Williams said. “What you do is missionary work, because you are making a difference. Don’t give up.”

DSU Provost Tony Allen moderated a panel discussion on “Student Success Transformative Models.” The panelists included Dr. Bruce Bandal, senior vice president, and Dr. Dhanfu Elston, vice president of Complete College America; as well as DSU’s Dr. Lisa Dunning, associate vice president of Academic Enrichment.

Dr. Devona Williams, DSU Board of Trustees chairperson, also led a session on “Advancement: The University Backbone” with the heads of institutional advancement divisions represented among the participating HBCUs.

The symposium featured numerous sessions relating to a wide range of areas including: university business model transformation, alumni relations, annual giving, digital giving, strategic planning in relation to fundraising, prospect research, data use and information, legacy, as well as the challenges and opportunities of institutional success.

Rob Henry, vice president of education for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), was presented the symposium’s Advancement Award for his support of the university advancement personnel.

The symposium also held a table showcase competition, which was won by Bowie State University.

The 2018 HBCU Philanthropy Symposium was sponsored and organized by the DSU Division of Institutional Advancement, headed by Dr. Vita Pickrum, its vice president.