Key Elements
- Alfred State College’s “Unleashing Potential” campaign is on track to surpass its ambitious $40 million goal ahead of schedule.
- CCS provided data-driven prospect modeling, case refinement, campaign cabinet leadership, and major gift officer training to strengthen donor engagement.
- Funds will expand scholarships, invest in cutting-edge technology, and enhance campus life to ensure ASC students are prepared for in-demand careers.
The personal relationship, level of detail, their ability to get to know our donors, and help creating a great plan was the most valuable aspects of our partnership with CCS. The data analytics work and the feasibility study we did set the perfect foundation for our campaign success, and their campaign management was instrumental. CCS has extensive experience in higher education and understand the challenges today. They helped craft our case for support that every single person buys into. CCS nailed it!
– Danielle White, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Alfred State College
The Challenge
The higher education landscape is changing fast: enrollment is declining, online options are multiplying, and state funding has flatlined, even as tuition rises. Alfred State College (ASC) is built to thrive in this environment, offering affordable tuition, online degrees, and industry-aligned programs that launch graduates into in-demand careers. To ensure ASC continues delivering excellence and opportunity, the College embarked on its boldest initiative yet: “Unleashing Potential,” a $40 million comprehensive campaign.
The Solution
To bring this vision to life, ASC partnered with CCS to apply data-driven strategy and campaign management expertise. Predictive modeling uncovered new prospects, while a refreshed case for support sharpened campaign priorities and messaging. CCS also guided the campaign cabinet phase, engaging influential alumni leaders, and provided a four-part major gift officer training series to strengthen donor relationships and accelerate giving.
The Impact
With 85% of its $40 million goal already achieved, ASC is ahead of schedule and building powerful momentum. The campaign will expand scholarships for deserving students, equip classrooms with cutting-edge technology, and deepen investment in the College’s dynamic campus community—ensuring every student has the tools to succeed and positioning ASC as a leader in hands-on, career-focused education.
Featured Team Member
Collaborating with ASC on their most ambitious campaign in history was a true pleasure. While CCS helped guide the campaign through detailed planning, prospect strategy, and developing a compelling case for support, ASC’s campaign is effective for several other reasons: Dr. Steven Mauro, President, is a visionary leader who prioritizes fundraising. Their Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Danielle White, and her team are mission-driven and eager to refine their practices to achieve new heights. Their administrative team, Foundation Board members, and their Campaign Executive Committee comprises industry leaders who are deeply committed to ASC. Leadership is a critical component of a campaign’s success, and ASC has engaged leaders who are dedicated to reaching their fundraising goal.
Jennifer L. Castellan, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President, CCS Fundraising
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