“I am Learning, and I Never Stop Learning”: Building Professional Capacity among Chief Fundraising Officers in the Technical College System of Georgia

Chief fundraising officers at technical colleges face complex challenges in their roles, including scarce resources, small staff sizes, and a lack of formal training. This qualitative study explored how chief fundraising officers within a technical college system utilize learning experiences and projects to enhance their professional capacity. The primary researcher conducted three 90-minute semi-structured interviews with four participants, exploring how these professionals navigate their complex roles through continuous learning and adaptation. The study highlights the strategic engagements of chief fundraising officers with professional development and their innovative approaches to leveraging limited resources. Four key themes emerged: (a) “I am learning and living in community,” (b) “I am doing more than others realize,” (c) “I am leveraging available resources,” and (d) “I am learning, and I never stop learning.” These findings suggest strategies for enhancing fundraising operations in two-year colleges and may inform administrative and budgetary decisions. By highlighting the specific learning projects and experiences that foster professional growth, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the professional development needs of chief fundraising officers in the technical college sector, providing insights for policy-making and future research.