In an effort to highlight the NAADD Diversity Working Group, the Association will feature one member from the Working Group on a weekly basis over the next several months. This working group was created back in July 2020 to serve as an advisory group to the NAADD Executive Committee, in addition to cultivating the pipeline for minorities in collegiate athletics development. The NAADD Diversity Working Group aims to be a support network for minorities in the industry through education, advocacy, and awareness.This week, the spotlight turns to Alvin Franklin of Purdue University. 

Name: Alvin Franklin
Job Title: Director of Development 
Number of years in your position: 2 years 
Institution: Purdue University
Email: arfranklin@purdueforlife.org

Tell us about the last two positions you have held.
In my current role, I serve as the Director of Development, Major Gifts at Purdue University within the John Purdue Club. I manage a donor portfolio of 250 donors and manage the entire southeast region of the United States from a major gift standpoint. Additionally, I work in collaboration with our athletics external staff on strategies for maximizing department annual revenue and improving our internal dialogue. Prior to my arrival at Purdue, I held the role of Assistant Director of Development at the University of South Alabama. I worked diligently to enhance the annual fund and collaboratively raise funds towards football stadium project, baseball clubhouse, track surface, and golf practice facility. I also led the charge on creating a letter-winner society and oversaw sport specific giving.

When/why did you first become involved in NAADD?
I first joined NAADD in 2015 when I came into the industry. I got involved in NAADD to learn from the best in the industry and to be able to connect with other development officers to hear about their experiences and best practices to be successful.

What do you consider to be your biggest accomplishment to date?
I really do not have the normal answer here about a particular gift closed or a certain initiative. I would have to say that my biggest accomplishment to date was my perseverance early on in my career. When I was in the pursuit of entry level/full-time positions, I was told no countless times and sometimes denied without a clear explanation. I did not let that deter me from continuing to press forward.

Provide the membership a few thoughts on how you hope this Working Group can impact NAADD and our members long term?
I believe that the Executive Committee made a great decision to implement this Working Group. I hope that this group can leave a lasting impact on NAADD by engaging and promoting the work of minorities in this industry. It is evident that there is a shortage of minorities in development roles and we want to assist with providing mentorship for young professionals who are looking to grow in this industry. Additionally, we want to provide professional development and networking opportunities to hopefully help minorities ascend into more leadership roles.

Tell us something unique/interesting/special about yourself.
I used to be a junior college baseball coach and co-workers will still sometimes refer to me as coach because of my demeanor at times. My favorite sport to watch is women's basketball. I am in full suit and tie on Mondays as a tribute to the youth from the community where I grew up because most of them do not see men in a shirt and tie.