Case Study: University of Northern Iowa achieves 80% higher average gift with Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL Digital Dialogue)

The University of Northern Iowa sees 80% increase in average gift in RNL Digital Dialogue pilot

The University of Northern Iowa wanted to maximize the effectiveness of its fiscal-year-end mailing and increase overall alumni giving, so it piloted digital advertising alongside its existing multichannel outreach. UNI partnered with Ruffalo Noel Levitz and used the RNL Digital Dialogue product to test targeted digital ads to alumni while keeping messaging consistent with its mail and phone efforts.

Ruffalo Noel Levitz managed creative, data segmentation, publishing and analysis for the pilot (which targeted about 60% of the mailing list). The Digital Dialogue group delivered clear lift: a 43% higher response rate (2.76% vs 1.93%), an 80% larger average gift ($258 vs $143), and $7.12 raised per record versus $2.11 (a 237% increase), demonstrating significant improvement in engagement and ROI.

University of Northern Iowa

Sunni Kegebein

Director of Annual Giving Programs