From $50K Camp Gift to Major Gifts Strategy | VP of Development Dr. Mario Hicks
A surprise $50K pledge changed everything for a young counselor—and set the course for a career in philanthropy. In this conversation, Dr. Mario Hicks shares how that moment at Cradle Beach Camp shaped his approach to major gifts: from curiosity to relationship-building to aligning donor passions with institutional priorities. He breaks down his experience at Daemen University—moving alumni from nostalgia to the “new Daemen”—and why they needed more than scholarships to inspire. Think compelling projects (like a gross anatomy lab), cross-sector relevance, and an “invite-to-participate” narrative. You’ll also hear how annual giving feeds leadership and major gifts, and why matches and challenges activate leadership donors as ambassadors. Practical, grounded, and deeply mission-focused.
