Hi everyone,
I have found that elderly academics are quite likely to give but *only* to their department. Many of them are on very healthy pensions and feel like they're almost paying back some of it or even
all of it by leaving a legacy gift. I find that younger staff are a little more disillusioned by current cuts etc and are quite vocal in discarding all types of giving to their employer. Only one of all my legacy pledges is a member of staff under 50.
My recommendations would be to mail all staff over 60 with a personalised letter. Go in gentle with the "perhaps you have considered supporting your department/former department/Aston in your
will, or perhaps you haven't" sort of touch and see what you get. Many of our departments have names prizes and bursaries from way back to there is a familiarity with the concept of someone wanting to lend their name to scholarship or such. All of my staff
donors want that route rather than buying equipment.
I have also added a "Sign up for our alumni newsletter" from into the retiring packs for staff. if they're in the loop news-wise a legacy gift is more likely.
Hope this helps and happy for you to call me if you want!
Kathryn
Kathryn Griggs
Deputy Head of Development
Telephone: 01784 414991
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