The UALR Department of Digital Strategy on Monday announced the launch of a new site at ualr.edu/giving that makes online donations and supporting scholarships easier than ever before.

Dan Shisler, director of Digital Strategy, believes UALR is among the first universities to initiate a familiar e-commerce experience for its donors.

“We wanted to provide an easy avenue for alumni and donors to connect or reconnect with the university and provide support for current students wherever needed,” Shisler said.

“I hope, as we move forward, the site will provide more than just an easy method to show support, but also evolve into a method of engaging with our alumni and supporters in a meaningful, responsive manner,” he said.

Along with the ease of use, the system emulates the shopping experience that is a familiar one for most online shoppers. In addition, giving by department or by category can be promoted in marketing initiatives by URL, allowing for individuals or departments to promote only their campaign.

“The new site has created a rich and engaging narrative that will capture interest and sustain our alumni and donors. It will bring the UALR story to life, no matter what platform is used, from desktop to mobile device,” said Associate Vice Chancellor of Alumni and Development Christian O’Neal.

A portion of Alumni Association membership dues contributed through the website supports student scholarships, student programs, and unique travel opportunities.

The giving site includes a basket system to make multiple donations, as well as a brick builder widget that allows visitors to preview and purchase their commemorative alumni brick for the Alumni Plaza.

Some other key features:

• Departments have the ability for philanthropic crowdfunding – similar to Kickstarter, a popular global online crowdfunding platform
• Items can be marketed categorically by department or by need
• The system used to build this is secure and compliant with credit processing standards
• The system is an open system, which allows for many customizations in the future
• Tangible items such as t-shirts can be sold with shipping and inventory controls

For crowdfunding or fundraising by selling tangible items, contact Derek Boyce at dcboyce@ualr.edu or Dara Goad dkgoad@ualr.edu.

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