Erica Jenkins currently works as the Leadership Annual Giving Officer for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives at the University of Michigan. As an alumna of the University of Michigan, Erica graduated in 2013 with a degree in sociology and a minor in community action and social change. Erica’s interest in development and alumni relations began almost ten years ago, during her participation in the Development Summer Internship Program (D-SIP) at the University of Michigan. Through this internship, Erica had the opportunity to work closely with a local nonprofit, Community Action Network, where she was responsible for coordinating the summer solicitation mailing, creating press releases, and planning the 25th anniversary and volunteer recognition event. Following D-SIP and graduating from the University of Michigan, Erica spent two years at The Remington Group and Hanover Research gaining valuable private sector development experience, bolstering her relationship building skills, and working with team members to reach revenue goals. In 2015, Erica began working at the University of Michigan Office of University Development, supporting three regional major gift officers and learning the intricacies behind cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors. Erica went on to pursue a role as the Manager of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations at the University of Michigan School of Education, where she oversaw annual giving appeals, crafted stewardship materials for donors, and planned several events. Erica’s cumulative experience working in development has enhanced her writing skills, honed her organizational skills, and provided her with the tools to communicate with alumni and donors in a meaningful and engaging way. Erica enjoys connecting with donors and prospective donors and learning about their philanthropic goals. Erica believes the pillars of diversity, inclusion, justice, and equity are critical, and it is her privilege to implement practices that reflect these values in every aspect of her work.