CMAC Sunday Ideas Series: How Innovation and Advancement Work Together

A Conversation with Dr. Davy Norris

On a recent episode of Alumless, the hosts spoke with Norris, the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Advancement at Louisiana Tech University. He shared how the university combined its advancement and innovation efforts to strengthen partnerships, create new funding opportunities, and engage alumni in more meaningful ways.

Louisiana Tech’s approach challenges the traditional advancement model. By embracing an entrepreneurial mindset, the university has expanded beyond philanthropy, positioning itself as a leader in corporate engagement and regional economic development.

Key Insights

• Big ideas drive fundraising. Donors making transformational gifts want to invest in bold, future-focused initiatives.
• Universities must think like entrepreneurs. Louisiana Tech’s innovation enterprise connects corporate partners and alumni in ways that benefit everyone.
• Advancement is changing. Bringing together corporate engagement, alumni relations, and fundraising creates new opportunities for support.
• Alumni are key partners. Many of Louisiana Tech’s corporate relationships are led by alumni, strengthening ties to the university.
• Taking risks is necessary. Institutions that adapt and experiment will remain competitive.
• Innovation fuels local economies. Louisiana Tech’s partnerships have attracted businesses, created jobs, and boosted regional growth.

Why Louisiana Tech Merged Innovation and Advancement

Rather than building a single innovation center, Louisiana Tech developed an innovation enterprise—a network of initiatives designed to connect the university with external partners. This structure integrates advancement functions, making managing corporate relationships, engaging alumni, and securing new funding easier.

Dr. Norris explained that many corporate partners are led by alumni who already have a strong connection to the university. By aligning innovation and advancement, Louisiana Tech has streamlined engagement and created a more sustainable funding model.

The Results

Louisiana Tech’s approach has produced significant benefits:

• Stronger corporate partnerships. Companies gain access to research, student talent, and faculty expertise while supporting the university.
• Diversified revenue streams. Beyond philanthropy, the university generates long-term funding through business partnerships.
• More engaged alumni. Alumni leaders in partner organizations naturally stay involved with the university.
• Economic impact. The university’s innovation efforts have attracted companies and strengthened the local economy.

Challenges and Considerations

This model requires a shift in mindset. Some worry that merging advancement and innovation might take focus away from traditional fundraising. Others note that universities are often risk-averse and slow to change.

Dr. Norris emphasized that success depends on strong leadership and a willingness to experiment. Universities that embrace new approaches will build deeper relationships with donors, corporate partners, and alumni.

Final Thoughts

Louisiana Tech’s strategy offers a new way of thinking about advancement. By integrating innovation and entrepreneurship, universities can create more meaningful engagement, expand funding opportunities, and increase their impact.

To learn more, listen to the full Alumless episode featuring Dr. Davy Norris on your favorite podcast platform.