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This is a redacted version of the master event plan used by staff to plan and organize the event. It includes an event overview, event participants, program notes, planning notes, timelines, and budget tracking.
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A compilation of all electronic communications sent to invitees and registrants including the event invitation, a Know Before You Go email and a post-event competition result email.
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The event program which is shared both digitally and in print.
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The competition ballot for audience members to vote on their favorite presentation.
CNS Fast-Pitch Competition and Director's Circle Lunch
Category
Fundraising > Donor Relations & Stewardship Initiatives
Description
Best of CASE District VII Award
Institution: University of California, Davis
Title of entry: CNS Fast-Pitch Competition and Director's Circle Lunch
About this entry: The Center for Neuroscience (CNS) Fast-Pitch Competition and Director’s Circle Lunch is a high impact stewardship and cultivation program designed for Director’s Circle donors and major gift prospects. It strengthens donor affinity, highlights the immediate impact of philanthropy, and generates meaningful renewal, upgrade, and major gift opportunities.
CNS faculty submit project proposals, and finalists are selected to present their pitches at the Fast-Pitch event. Invitations are extended to all current, lapsed, and prospective Director’s Circle members, as well as CNS major and planned gift donors. At the event, attendees first hear progress updates from the previous year’s winning project, followed by 10-minute faculty presentations showcasing innovative ideas with strong scientific and societal impact. Donors then participate in live voting, allocating seed funding ($150,000 in 2025) across the top three projects. This interactive format places donors at the center of decision making, deepens their connection to the research, and provides a clear line of sight between their investment and outcomes.
At lunch, guests enjoy intentionally curated seating mixing donors, faculty, graduate students, and development staff, which fosters meaningful conversation and supports cultivation goals. An additional “NeuroActivity,” such as neuroscience trivia, reinforces community and engagement.
Following the event, all invitees receive a summary of competition results, ensuring broad participation and stewardship. The program strengthens donor–faculty relationships, increases donor enthusiasm for CNS’s mission, and advances major gift conversations. The combination of live philanthropic decision making, high quality scientific storytelling, and intimate donor–faculty interaction positions this program as an effective model for others.