114: Rethinking Fundraising: Smarter Strategist for School Advancement with Barbara Barron
Update: 2025-08-13
Description
In this episode of Mindful School Marketing, we sit down with Barbara Barron, a seasoned consultant in independent school advancement, to challenge outdated fundraising tactics and explore more effective ways to engage school communities. From reimagining galas to building mission-driven collaboration between marketing and development, Barbara shares fresh, realistic insights for today's school landscape.
We also discuss why alumni giving is often misunderstood, how over-asking impacts donor fatigue, and why thoughtful timing and communication matter more than ever. Barbara’s approach is both strategic and compassionate, offering a path forward that respects the time, energy, and values of families and school staff alike.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
Why marketing and development teams should collaborate closely
A smarter alternative to galas and auctions (and why the ROI matters)
What schools often get wrong about alumni fundraising
How to reduce “ask fatigue” and sequence requests more effectively
Tips for breaking through inbox noise with authentic communication
How mindfulness and presence can transform fundraising conversations
We also discuss why alumni giving is often misunderstood, how over-asking impacts donor fatigue, and why thoughtful timing and communication matter more than ever. Barbara’s approach is both strategic and compassionate, offering a path forward that respects the time, energy, and values of families and school staff alike.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear:
Why marketing and development teams should collaborate closely
A smarter alternative to galas and auctions (and why the ROI matters)
What schools often get wrong about alumni fundraising
How to reduce “ask fatigue” and sequence requests more effectively
Tips for breaking through inbox noise with authentic communication
How mindfulness and presence can transform fundraising conversations
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