Tywanda L. Cuffy, Director of External Relations, Communications and Development Initiatives, University of Delaware Library Museums and Press
Nicole Hernandez, External Relations Coordinator, University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
In fall of 2019, Tywanda created the Library, Museums and Press Development Ambassadors to strengthen the culture of engagement and philanthropy among staff. Currently, Nicole and Tywanda meet quarterly with the group to advance the understanding and awareness of philanthropy within the Library. Since forming, the ambassadors have redefined the grant writing process and policy for staff members—increasing overall awareness and an uptick in grant applications; increased staff participation in crowdfunding efforts like Giving Tuesday and I Heart UD Day; and increased donor engagement and qualification at signature events. Join Tywanda and Nicole as they discuss the process for creating an ambassador group, review in detail the work the group has accomplished together and explore how you might create one at your university to enhance your development efforts.
Speaker Bios:
Tywanda Cuffy is the Director of External Relations, Communications and Development Initiatives at the University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press. In this role, she oversees all fundraising, donor relations, communications, marketing, and events for the University’s flagship library, four branch libraries, three museums and university press. She has worked in library development for five years. Prior to that, she served as the Assistant Director of Donor Stewardship and Alumni Engagement Communications at the University of Delaware.
Nicole Hernandez is the External Relations Coordinator at the University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press. Her work focuses on donor stewardship, coordinating with the Friends of the UD Library, and developing and implementing engagement strategies with key constituents. Prior to her current role, Nicole served as the Program Manager for the Research Commons, a digital scholarship center, at The Ohio State University Library.