In this episode of Alumless, Chris Marshall and Nicole Kempton explore the growing intersection of innovation and university advancement with Dr. Davy Norris, Senior Vice President for Innovation and Advancement and CEO of the Louisiana Tech University Foundation. Louisiana Tech recently made a bold move by merging its Innovation Enterprise with University Advancement, a strategic shift that positions alumni, research, and economic development at the heart of institutional growth.

Davy shares what prompted this integration, how it aligns with Louisiana Tech’s mission, and what it means for philanthropy, industry partnerships, and alumni engagement. The conversation dives into the future of alumni participation in innovation, the role of advancement in supporting research commercialization, and how this model could reshape regional economic development.

This episode provides key insights for institutions rethinking how advancement and innovation can work together to create new opportunities for students, faculty, and alumni.

Subscribe to Alumless to hear the extended podcast conversation, and special thanks to AlumniQ for sponsoring this episode. Visit alumniq.com for details on their events-and-all technology.

In our next episode of Alumless, we welcome Sarah Kathryn Ricci, Assistant Vice President for Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving at Baylor University, for a conversation on management and leadership in university advancement. In this episode, "Managing Up, Down, All-Around," we explore the challenges of leading teams, collaborating across departments, and engaging alumni volunteers. Sarah Kathryn shares strategies for balancing engagement and fundraising, navigating internal partnerships, and motivating staff and volunteers. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned manager, this episode offers practical insights into what it takes to succeed in advanced leadership. A big thanks to our presenting sponsor, Protopia, for their continued support. Find out more about the technology that’s turning heads and winning CASE awards! Visit protopia.co/alumless for details.

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Friday Cheers:

Ryan: 10 Proven Methods for Real Learning

In this episode of Alumless, Ryan Catherwood and Chris Marshall explore how alumni associations can generate new revenue streams while continuing to build strong engagement. With traditional revenue sources like affinity partnerships and membership dues fading, alumni professionals are being challenged to innovate and adapt in ways that align with their mission. Joining the conversation is Paul Clifford, CMAC’s newest Senior Consultant and former CEO of the Penn State Alumni Association. Paul shares his insights from decades of experience leading alumni engagement efforts at major institutions, reflecting on the balance between revenue generation and relationship-building. The discussion covers creative funding models, the shifting priorities of alumni leaders, and strategies for testing new ideas without compromising engagement goals. Tune in for an in-depth look at how institutions can navigate this new era of advancement, ensuring alumni engagement efforts remain impactful while also being financially sustainable. Subscribe to Alumless to catch the full conversation, including our exclusive podcast-only bonus segment with Paul. A special thanks to AlumniQ for supporting Alumless as our presenting sponsor. Check out the events and the technology everyone is talking about at alumniq.com.

Ryan's Friday Cheers - Alumni Sign Letter of Complaint After Vought Controversy (Wheaton College)