Sophia Reid, CFRE
Associate Director, Advancement Operations
University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Tell us a little bit about the organization you serve.
University of Waterloo is a leading global innovation hub that drives economic and social prosperity for Canada and the world. With more than 41,000 students, we are home to the world's largest co-op education talent pipeline, to game-changing research and technology, and to an unmatched entrepreneurial culture. Find out more at uwaterloo.ca.
How many years have you been involved with aasp?
I have spent 15 years in philanthropy. I think 7 years or more of those as a member of aasp.
As a continual learner I realized aasp provides me with valuable information to assist in my learning journey. The Advancement Services professionals from various sectors have shared “best practices” and resources which has enabled me to do my job better.
Tell us about your Volunteer Roles with aasp.
I am a volunteer with the Membership Engagement Committee. I have volunteered with wonderful individuals that meet regularly to discuss, formulate, and implement strategies for our members.
I also volunteer on the Mentorship Subcommittee. This committee helps to create opportunities for members to be a mentor or mentee. It’s a way for our members engage and learn from each other.
What motivates you to volunteer with aasp?
I enjoy meeting new people and sharing experiences. After attending Summit, I decided to give back to our profession by volunteering. I am motivated to continue volunteering with aasp because it’s a great community of various individuals from many fundraising sectors across the world.
Which events have you attended?
I have attended aasp Summit and some aasp webinars in the past.
Recently, (Summit 2023) I was Summit Buddy. I had the opportunity to share the conference experience with a first-timer.
How have you benefited professionally and/or personally by volunteering with aasp?
I would say my creative skills have increased by volunteering with aasp. As an Associate Director Operations, creativity is essential in working with various groups at the University. The saying “one size fits all” doesn’t cut it as we strive to be more efficient and effective in advancement. We have the ability to store vast amounts of information (in the office or at home), the ability to organize information by individuals’ donors, groups or unknown will take a creative/innovative solution. The ability to tap into the “best practices”, webinars and networking will continue to benefit me as I continue to improve other strengths.
What are you most excited about with aasp for 2024?
I'm excited about growing our membership base. I am even more excited about Summit occurring this year in New Orleans. Hopefully, I will meet some new members.
Other than your volunteerism with aasp and your career what are your interests/passions?
When I am not volunteering with aasp, I am an active member of The Black Canadian Fundraisers’ Collective (BCFC). The BCFC is a group of Black identifying people, rooted in the historic African tradition of Ubuntu, “I am because you are.”
When I am not sitting at my computer I like to exercise, and in the summer months I do Dragon Boating with the TRC (Toronto Running Club).
I am working on completing my 2nd half marathon this spring in Toronto.