Article provided by Mandy Loomes, Director Community Engagement, Brigidine College, St Ives
In education, leadership is the cornerstone of success. For educational institutions to thrive, it requires the collaboration of various leaders working together toward a shared vision. One of the most critical partnerships in any institution is the one between the Head of the Institution and the Head of Advancement (Head of Community Engagement, Director of Community Relations etc). This partnership plays a vital role in not only achieving academic excellence but also in securing the resources necessary to support and sustain that excellence.
At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to the school’s mission and values. The Head is the institution’s CEO responsible for its management, financial operation, curriculum, student and staff wellbeing, reporting and compliance. The Head of Advancement focuses on building relationships within the community to broaden an institution’s reach, maintain and build enrolments, promote both institution and student success, marketing, effective and consistent communications and publications, philanthropic campaigns, and meaningful relationships with the community including families, staff, students, alumni and donors.
When both roles work in tandem, aligning their goals and strategies, the institution is in a strong position to achieve its strategic objectives.
Why the Partnership Matters
- Community Engagement: The Head is the face of the institution. However, the Head of Advancement plays an equally vital role in strengthening the institution. Together, they can play a pivotal role to build and nurture relationships with current and past parents, current and past staff, students, alumni, donors, local businesses, neighbours and others. These relationships and ongoing stewardship help foster a strong sense of pride and connection, leading to increased donations, increased numbers of volunteers and positive word of mouth. An essential aspect of the Head of Advancement’s role is to keep the Head of Institution informed of community sentiment allowing for proactive engagement to protect the institution’s reputation.
- Strategic Growth: Effective growth in an educational institution requires a clearly defined strategy. It is important for the Head of Institution and the Head of Advancement to communicate regularly to align their efforts and direction. This leadership collaboration ensures that the institution continues to develop, innovate, expand and provide new opportunities for students to support the educational vision.
- Philanthropy: Heads of Institutions often face the challenge of ensuring that their institutions have the resources needed to provide a high quality education especially when some resources are not covered by tuition fees. The role of the Head of Advancement is to manage philanthropy initiatives to raise the funds through efforts including annual giving, major gift campaigns, capital appeals, endowments and scholarships. Head of Advancement works to develop the Fundraising strategies and events to engage the community and nurtures the donor relationship whilst the Head of Institution is the lead and face of the institution. Together the Head of Institution and the Head of Advancement build a culture of giving.
The partnership between the Head of Institution and the Head of Advancement is a powerful combination that can truly support and promote an institution. Through collaboration this partnership creates a strong foundation for the future and the generations to come, creating an environment where excellence in education and community engagement go hand in hand. This leadership partnership is more than a professional relationship – it is a commitment to the success and strength of the institution.
Mandy Loomes
Director Community Engagement
Brigidine College, St Ives
