Case Study: Oregon State University Foundation achieves 12–16% increase in donor acquisition with Blackbaud's donorCentrics (Target Analytics)

Oregon State University Foundation Uses donorCentrics™ from Target Analytics® to Increase Acquisition Rates

The Oregon State University Foundation, the nonprofit that raises and manages gifts for Oregon State University, faced a challenge when Lacie LaRue took over annual giving in 2007 during a major seven‑year fundraising campaign: much of the fundraising knowledge was anecdotal and the Foundation needed clear, data‑driven definitions and direction to improve donor acquisition and stewardship.

LaRue implemented donorCentrics Performance Benchmarking Services from Target Analytics to analyze years of historical donor data, benchmark performance against peer institutions, and share best practices at collaborative meetings. Using insights on reactivated donors, online fundraising tactics and peer strategies, the Foundation raised acquisition rates by 12–16% even through the recession, while building staff skills and a more strategic, data‑driven fundraising program.

Oregon State University Foundation

Lacie LaRue

Director of Annual Giving Programs