From Philadelphia to Adelaide, Advancement Manager Heidi Warren has spent her career building relationships with people to improve outcomes for others. We caught up with her to chat about the importance of philanthropy at Flinders, and the impact it can have on a person’s life.
What is your role here at Flinders?
As Advancement Manager, I cultivate major philanthropic gifts to support students (through scholarships and prizes), research, and other University priorities. My work is all about building relationships with people who want to make a difference in the world and connecting that passion with the great things happening at Flinders.
Tell us a little about your life and career up to now.
I grew up in the US and spent most of my adult life in Philadelphia working in the social impact sector. I used to run a “soccer for social change” youth development organisation that works with kids from under-resourced communities and helps them thrive both on and off the field. The best part of my job was seeing our young people develop into confident young leaders. Meanwhile, I had married an Aussie who was itching to return home. We eventually made the leap to Adelaide with our two young sons in late 2020 (during COVID, the most awkward possible time to move!).
What’s your favourite thing about working in advancement?
I get to talk to people about the difference they want to make in the world… and then help make that happen. I love being able to circle back to donors about the impact of their gift and how their generosity has changed lives.
Why is Advancement so important at Flinders?
Our work is all about connecting people’s desire to do good with the great things happening at Flinders. Philanthropy from individuals and foundations can often fill gaps that are not well supported by public funding. Philanthropy can provide the seed money to launch an idea or leverage support from other sources.
We focus on building meaningful long-term relationships. We’re not just looking for donors (although the financial support matters!). We’re cultivating champions for Flinders – people and organisations who feel invested in the success of students and research.
Where is your favourite spot on campus?
The view of the ocean from the top of the lake walk always makes me pause. How lucky am I to live and work in such a beautiful place?!
How do you spend your spare time?
My spare time is generally spent with my family, ideally doing something active, or in the garden coaxing vegetables to grow. We live a 15-minute walk from the beach, so that’s a regular destination. My boys recently took up rock climbing which has been fun to do with them as well.