Crimson Club Donor Relations
Patrick
Experience Information
Employer: University of Utah Athletics
Job Title: Development Staff
Major: Sport Management
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: No
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
The Crimson Club is an arm of the athletics department that functions to gain donors and money to cover costs as well as providing scholarships to student-athletes. They work closely with marketing and coaches. One of the goals of the Crimson Club is to develop personal relationships with the student-athletes, coaches, and donors. There are 11 employees in the department.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I was in charge of gathering data, pictures, and writing excerpts for the Annual Giving Guide for the recent school year. The annual report outlines accomplishments of the athletes, teams, and what the money that was donated went to. The 20 page guide was recently completed by a graphic designer and will be released online and in print. I have also helped with creating letters to donors and compiling donor gifts.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Organization, customer relations, marketing, advertising, business communications, Microsoft Office, and donor retention/growth.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part was working in the office atmosphere. The Utah Athletics Department is full of kind and fun people. I immediately felt comfortable and they truly cared about my experience. My supervisors made sure to help me as much as I helped them. They encouraged me to apply for my dream job, even though that meant I would have to leave.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I have enjoyed my time with Utah Athletics and am grateful for the experience. I have realized that I am tailored to work in an organization that helps people and is not simply focused on the bottom line. My supervisors encouraged me to apply as a ski instructor and I got the job. I am thankful that they believed in me and that my career path is off to an exciting start.