Fundraising is the lifeblood of colleges and universities—without it, many would cease to exist. Student tuition alone isn’t enough to keep schools running or to maintain and grow the physical structure of the campus, making a continued influx of donor dollars essential.
While colleges know there are many ways to drive donations—from alumni giving campaigns to corporate sponsorships—it’s sometimes forgotten that one of the most important marketing tools is the look of the campus itself. Prospective donors expect a school’s grounds to have a pristine, well-maintained appearance. Conversely, they may be uneasy about giving to schools that fail to look the part.
Here are some of the top landscaping turn-offs that can lower your school’s image in the blink of an eye:
General slovenly appearance. Overflowing trash receptacles, gum on the sidewalks and cigarette butts outside entrances make it appear that no one cares to spiffy up the place, even for guests.
Nature run amuck. Dead trees and untrimmed bushes, weeds in the flower beds (or anywhere), and areas of brown and dying grass can ruin even the most majestic of campus architecture.
Failure to maintain. Deteriorating or dirty sidewalks, non-operational fountains with floating debris, full gutters and faded or torn awnings give an impression of neglect.
Lack of focal interest. Campuses need a scenic quality that makes one want to linger, with seasonal flowers and shrubs in key areas, statuary, water features and other landscaping elements that provide visual appeal. Colleges that are primarily brick and concrete can appear cold and impersonal.
Summer, when your campus population is smaller, is a great time to address landscaping issues that may be hampering your ability to raise funds and attract students. By taking your problem areas in hand and raising the look of your campus to a new level, you’ll be ready not only for the arrival of students and their parents come fall, but also for key events like homecoming that bring in alumni, your most likely source of dollars.
It’s true what they say about only getting one chance to make a first impression. If your campus gets a failing grade on the outside, no one may take a look inside its doors.
If you need assistance in creating and maintaining your campus landscaping, contact us today. National’s team specializes in cost-effectively creating and maintaining pristine campus environments that can support your student recruitment and fundraising goals.
# # #