Development Team

Question 1

The Foundation

Answer 1

The sole fundraising entity for the Naval Academy, raising both restricted and unrestricted funding for the Academy. The mission of the Foundation is to support, promote, and advance the mission of the Naval Academy by working in conjunction with Academy leadership to identify strategic and institutional priorities and by raising, managing, and disbursing private gift funds that provide a margin of excellence in support of the nation’s premier leadership institution. The Foundation raised $100 million in FY2025 across all priorities.

Question 2

The Development Team

Answer 2

Focused on partnering with donors to secure philanthropic investments at the principal gift (7-figure+), major gift (6-figure), and high-end leadership annual giving ($5,000+ annually) levels in order to raise the necessary resources for the Margin of Excellence for USNA strategic funding priorities in Academics, Athletics, Admissions, and Leadership Development. Includes planned giving and prospect development and research.

Question 3

Annual Giving Programs

Answer 3

Primary goal is to maximize unrestricted gifts in support of the Naval Academy and the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation, from alumni, parents, and friends that are not in regional development portfolios. They run: Class Giving, First Gift, President’s Circle, The Great Class Challenge, Alumni/Parent Calling Program, and Direct Mail Solicitations

Question 4

Donor Engagement & Strategic Partnerships

Answer 4

Our DESP team plays crucial role in the Foundation’s ability to sustain and deepen relationships with all our supporters. They include the following aspects of the Development Team: DESP, Research and Prospect Management, Development Communications, Principal Gift Strategy, and Campaign Operations.

Question 5

Giving Societies

Answer 5

President’s Circle, Robert Means Thompson Society, Superintendent’s Society, Athletic Recognition Programs