Every December, people across the nation are bombarded with requests for donations. Not only are people in the holiday spirit, but they also have a chance to donate by the end of the year and claim the deduction on their taxes.

The process students undertake to research college programs has changed drastically in the past couple decades. Students no longer rely exclusively on print advertisements, US News & World Reports, and word-of-mouth.

Inevitably, in my work with nonprofits, the subject of fundraising comes up. More recently, donor retention has been a hot topic. After reflecting on my personal fundraising experiences and listening to my dear friends in the not-for-profit world, I can’t help but be reminded of my mother’s counsel...