Dr. Maria Gallo has over two decades of experience working in various leadership roles in higher education and advancement. She has several peer-reviewed academic journal publications in alumni relationships and philanthropy.
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Dr. Maria Gallo has over two decades of experience working in various leadership roles in higher education and advancement. She has several peer-reviewed academic journal publications in alumni relationships and philanthropy, and her latest book The Alumni Way is up for grabs.
“My two grandmothers - Nonna Maria and Nonna Vincenza. While they aren't famous historical figures, they continue to play a formative role in my life, shaping my Italian culture (with Canadian influence thrown in!). A dinner? This would be a formidable pair to watch them in action in the kitchen! I imagine the flair and gusto! Eating with them afterwards would serve to be the true indulgence in la dolce vita!”
“I learned early on that relationship building is the foundation of philanthropy - giving in all ways. As a new alumni-facing professional, I pitched the idea of a student leaders reunion at my alma mater, the University of Toronto. As a former student leader and recent alum myself, I recognized several names on the invitation list. Then several more. I spend my evening writing personalized messages on dozens of invitations. This was a time before social media, you can imagine me with a pen, some thoughtful words and boxes of invitations. The personalized approach worked and over 300 alumni attended the event. I learned that identifying leadership, rekindling their spark in their alma mater and then recognizing these leaders can lead to a lifetime of giving back for mutually beneficial impact.”
“If I am not in the gym early in the morning, I am out for a run. I find this solitude is incredible for my mental and physical health.”
“I am excited to see the broadening of philanthropic giving in campaigns to include alumni volunteering hours and showcasing this impact on an institution. Global alumni networks supported by governments or government agencies for international alumni, scholarship winners, fellowship programmes and science-based experiences are a promising trend. These innovative, creative alumni networks are built on the foundation of a transformative experience: of studying abroad, or gaining an educational experience that acts as a personal and professional enabler for alumni. By collectively bringing these alumni together the synergies and collaborations are palatable. Alumni hold the potential for giving back to the organization - and to the world through bringing their multidisciplinary experiences to address the UN Sustainable Development Goals targets. I get excited when I hear foundations and donors are curious to fund these collective alumni experiences - this is where true magic can happen!”
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Dr. Dilnoza Khasilova is an American-Uzbek educator, researcher, and linguist with extensive global, cross-cultural, and inclusive experience. She holds her Ph.D. in Literacy Studies, Curriculum and Instruction Department within the College of Education and a minor in International Studies from the University of Wyoming. Dilnoza is an Assessment/Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Specialist at the Ellbogen Center for Teaching and Learning and founder of the World Language and Culture program (alumni initiative) at the University of Wyoming. Dilnoza has built a nonformal World Language and Culture Program framework with a unique structure that focuses on community engagement in Wyoming and beyond. She is particularly interested in the power of scholarship of teaching and learning, engaging and connecting students with alumni through lifelong learning, cross-cultural communication, and community outreach. Her research focuses on teaching and learning, international education, adult literacy, inclusive learning, life-long learning, ways of teaching and learning, ESL, and world languages and cultures.
We asked Dr Dilnoza, a couple of questions and her answers were no short of inspiring! 💪
“My most influential mentor has undoubtedly been my aunt, Dildora. She was a role model for me. Throughout my life, she has exemplified strength, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her care and encouragement have fueled my ambition and inspired me to set and achieve my goals.
Aunt Dildora's remarkable journey as a dedicated physician doctor stands as a testament to her determination and resilience. Witnessing her commitment to excellence and her dedication to her career has deeply influenced my own aspirations and work ethic. She was honest, worked hard, and she always sought knowledge.
Her commitment to excellence in her career as a physician extends beyond borders. Through her extensive travels to exchange ideas and practices, she has not only broadened her own knowledge but also actively contributed to improving healthcare systems in our country. Her proactive approach in bringing back new healthcare apparatus and methodologies has been instrumental in advancing medical practices and patient care.
Her thirst for knowledge knew no bounds. Dildora's rigorous education and incredible reading habits served as a constant reminder of the importance of continuous learning and growth. She showed the values of lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity, inspiring me to seek knowledge and pursue excellence in all endeavors.
My aunt's dedication to her profession, coupled with her adventurous spirit, made her an exemplary role model for me. Her ability to navigate challenges with grace and determination fueled my own aspirations and my desire to make a meaningful impact in the world.
I am profoundly grateful for Dildora's mentorship, guidance, and support. I pay tribute to her and I am sure she is proud of me although she is no longer with us. Her influence continues to shape my path, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference.”
“After a fulfilling and busy week of work, I find joy in spending quality time with my family, particularly through outdoor exploration in the stunning natural landscapes of Wyoming. Whether it's hiking through scenic trails, picnicking by a river, or simply admiring the beauty of our surroundings, these moments of connection with nature rejuvenate my spirit and strengthen our family bond.
Cooking is another passion of mine, serving as a creative and a means of cultural expression. I like experimenting with diverse flavors and recipes, drawing inspiration from my heritage, and exploring cuisines from around the world. Sharing these culinary creations with my family and friends brings me immense satisfaction and fosters a sense of community and togetherness.
Music is also a significant source of enrichment in my life. I find great pleasure in listening to global music, immersing myself in the rich melodies and rhythms of different cultures including the Uzbek, Turkic, Persian, Arabic, and European. It serves as a gateway to understanding and appreciating diverse traditions and perspectives, enriching my cultural awareness and broadening my horizons.
Lastly, giving back to the community through volunteering holds deep personal significance for me. I am passionate about preserving and sharing the traditions of my heritage culture, and volunteering provides me with the opportunity to celebrate and showcase the beauty and richness of our cross-cultural traditions. Whether it's through cultural festivals, educational sessions/workshops, or community events, I take great pride in contributing to the cultural tapestry of our community and fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
These activities not only serve as avenues for relaxation and enjoyment but also as meaningful ways to connect with my close ones, celebrate diversity, and make a positive impact in our community.”
“If my life was a book, the title would be 'Force of Resilience: Navigating the Wilderness of Self-Belief'
'Force of Resilience' symbolizes the process of overcoming challenges and hardships to be strong and resilient. 'Navigating the Wilderness of Self-Belief' portrays the inner journey of self-discovery and empowerment, where one must navigate through uncertainties and doubts to cultivate a strong belief in oneself. This title conveys the message that nothing is easy and while the path to achieving one's dreams may be filled with challenges/obstacles, with resilience and self-belief, one can navigate through any wilderness and become stronger, ready to pursue her or his goals with determination.”
“I would mention four emerging trends in philanthropy and fundraising that excite me the most.
The first is tech-driven giving platforms. Leveraging technology for personalized donor experiences is particularly exciting. For example, leveraging technology allows for more efficient and engaging fundraising efforts, enabling nonprofits to reach broader audiences and cultivate deeper connections with donors through personalized experiences tailored to their interests and preferences.
The second trend is impact investing which not only provides an avenue for philanthropic capital to create measurable social and environmental impact but also can offer the potential for financial returns, thus fostering a sustainable cycle of giving.
The third trend is about collaborative giving initiatives. Such giving initiatives exemplify the power of collective action, where diverse stakeholders come together to address complex social issues with pooled resources and shared expertise.
The fourth trend is data-driven philanthropy. By leveraging data insights, philanthropic organizations can identify high-impact interventions, allocate resources more effectively, and evaluate the effectiveness of their initiatives in real time. Data-driven philanthropy approaches enable donors to make evidence-based decisions, maximize the efficiency of their investments, and achieve greater transparency and accountability in their philanthropic endeavors. These innovative approaches not only enhance the effectiveness of philanthropy but also inspire greater engagement and support from individuals and organizations passionate about making a difference in the world.”
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Women’s History Month - Interview with Dr. Dilnoza Khasilova
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This March, as the world commemorates Women's History Month, we are thrilled to launch a unique campaign designed to spotlight women leading the charge in advancement and fundraising.
Our mission is twofold: to foster a deeper connection with these inspirational figures through a series of light-hearted and engaging conversations, and to amplify their voices far and wide. In doing so, we aim not only to honor their remarkable contributions to our industry and society at large but also to inspire the next generation of aspiring women leaders.
At the heart of our campaign lies a simple yet powerful vision: to celebrate the diverse and dynamic roles that women occupy, both in their professional careers and personal lives. By sharing stories, experiences, and insights through a lens of joy and authenticity, we seek to highlight the humanity and relatability of women who have broken barriers and paved the way for others. This initiative is about more than just recognizing achievements; it's about building connections, fostering inspiration, and creating a space where every woman's voice can be heard.
Representation matters. Visibility matters. In a world where women's achievements are often overshadowed or underrepresented, bringing these stories to the forefront is a powerful act of affirmation and encouragement. Our campaign serves as a reminder that leadership comes in many forms and that the path to success is as diverse as the women who walk it. For those looking up at the glass ceiling, seeing others who have shattered it can light a fire of ambition and hope. We believe that by sharing the journeys of these women leaders, we can spark a dialogue that inspires, motivates, and empowers.
Our campaign will unfold across various platforms, featuring an array of engaging content formats—from intimate blog posts to enlightening video interviews. Expect to hear candid responses to fun and insightful questions that reveal more than just career achievements. We'll delve into personal passions, pivotal moments, challenges overcome, and words of wisdom for those just starting their journey. The leaders we'll feature come from a wide range of sectors within the advancement and fundraising industry, each bringing a unique perspective and story to share.
Dr. Dilnoza Khasilova is an American-Uzbek educator, researcher, and linguist with extensive global, cross-cultural, and inclusive experience. Dilnoza has built a nonformal World Language and Culture Program framework with a unique structure that focuses on community engagement in Wyoming. Her research focuses on international education, adult literacy, inclusive learning, life-long learning, ways of teaching and learning, ESL, and world languages and cultures.
Read more about our interview with Dr. Dilnoza Khasilova
Dr. Maria Gallo has over two decades of experience working in various leadership roles in higher education and advancement. She has several peer-reviewed academic journal publications in alumni relationships and philanthropy, and her latest book The Alumni Way is up for grabs.
Read more about our interview with Dr. Maria Gallo
Dr. Shalonda Martin is an ICF-trained coach, DEI, organizational, and leadership development professional with over two decades of experience. She is passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion, and creating inclusive work cultures. She also runs her own consultancy, SM Coaching & Consultancy.
Read more about our interview with Dr. Shalonda Martin
By highlighting the personal and professional lives of these extraordinary leaders, we hope to inspire, empower, and uplift women everywhere. Let's honor the past, present, and future contributions of women, not just this month but year-round. Join us in amplifying their voices and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Celebrating Women's Voices: A Special Campaign for Women's History Month
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.
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