LAGRANGE, Ga. (Jan. 16, 2026) – The University of North Georgia’s Advancement team was awarded the Overall Institutional Excellence in Advancement Award at the 2025 GEAC Conference in Pine Mountain, Georgia.
Over the past six year, the UNG team raised more than $74 million from over 13,000 donors, representing a 181% increase in total giving and a 33% increase in unique donors compared to the previous six-year period. The results were achieved while the team operated with fewer staff resources, including one unfilled development officer position throughout the entire period.
In early 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted in-person operations, the Advancement team transitioned a major feasibility study to virtual and phone-based interviews, completing all scheduled donor conversations. Following the study, development officers conducted outreach to all donors and prospects in their portfolios to maintain engagement and provide support during the public health crisis. The effort contributed to stronger donor relationships and sustained fundraising momentum.
Alumni Relations and Annual Giving also played a key role in donor growth, continuing alumni programming through virtual events, including the university’s 2020 alumni weekend. Advancement Services supported the increase in giving volume without additional staffing, maintaining timely gift processing, donor stewardship, and financial reporting. The university’s foundation received unmodified audits throughout the period.
In addition to fundraising outcomes, the Advancement team emphasized cross-unit collaboration and student engagement. Staff members regularly support student programs, promote student achievements, and participate in student-focused initiatives across campus.
The award recognizes the University of North Georgia’s Advancement team for consistent performance, adaptability, and results during a period of significant operational and external challenges and highlights the team as a model for effective advancement operations in higher education.