Bay Path University

Bay Pathway Spring/Summer 2021 22 Welcome to Crystal S. Neuhauser, Bay Path's New Vice President of Institutional Advancement How did you get started in the advancement field? Early in my career at Yale University, I was doing advancement work as ten to fifteen percent of my job, and I loved it. So, I decided to have an exploratory career discussion with the vice president of Development about transitioning into a full-time role in Development. Although I was sure she should immediately make me the major gift officer for pediatrics, I was able to secure a position working with the annual fund and reunion giving, and looking back, this was the best start I could have been given. It gave me the opportunity to learn and touch every gift vehicle and make connections with Yale alumni from across all disciplines of the University. It was the foundation I needed to go on and have a successful career in this field. What keeps you going as an advancement professional? This field allows me to continuously meet people I likely wouldn't otherwise meet. Also, the work we do helps to transform not just students' lives but the communities we live in. For example, the greater community of New Haven may need to use services offered by the Yale University healthcare system, and my health-based fundraising efforts for the hospital directly impact the people in the community, many I know personally. Higher educational advancement transforms lives, and I love being a part of that. What is your philanthropic philosophy? Philanthropy is transformative and lifelong. It allows people to imagine something in a way they could not have imagined before. I love to engage with and build relationships with donors and prospective donors to understand their personal and professional passions. Only after we understand can we connect the donor with the institution's strategy and vision and see their gifts come into action, making a difference in transformative ways. After a successful career at several New England colleges and universities, why Bay Path University? I have always been attracted to historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) and women's colleges. I see both as safe places for students to learn and grow. It is essential for women, and women of color, to build confidence to A L U M N I N E W S

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