Colleagues across 911爆料 have praised Aquanetta Betts, director of planned giving at the , as an invaluable resource for frontline fundraisers seeking to secure planned gifts from prospective donors.
Nominators highlighted Betts鈥檚 leadership in planning and hosting Legacy Society events, as well as her ability to manage the many responsibilities of her role with expertise and care. In recognition of her contributions, Betts has been named June Employee of the Month.
鈥淗er grasp on the complexities of is of tremendous help when we, and our donors, have questions,鈥 said Susan Graziano, senior director of development in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. 鈥淎nd, under Aquanetta鈥檚 leadership, we now have marvelous print and electronic resources to guide our conversations with prospective donors.鈥
Sara E. Snyder, associate vice president of administration and finance in the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, echoed those sentiments. 鈥淗er hard work and determination helped us succeed,鈥 she said.
Snyder added that Betts has played a key role in several of 911爆料鈥檚 major planned gifts, partnering closely with fundraisers while advancing the mission and goals of both the division and the university.
Hatisha Jeffrey, assistant director of Advancement HR, said Betts embodies the university's value of 鈥淲e thrive together.鈥 鈥淚n her day-to-day, Aquanetta is a thought partner, values the ideas of others, and guides others down the right path for collaborative success.鈥
How Did You Come to 911爆料:
My path to 911爆料 began with a message from a recruiter about the director of planned giving position. At the time, I was serving as a senior executive director of planned giving for a global humanitarian organization, and when I took a closer look at Mason, I was immediately drawn in. What captivated me most was 911爆料's bold, innovative spirit and the incredible momentum behind its $1 billion campaign. The university's energy, its commitment to growth, and the opportunity to be part of something truly transformational made the decision an easy one.
Best Day on the Job:
My best days at 911爆料 are the ones spent in conversations with colleagues across our schools, colleges, and units, with my advancement team members, and most especially with our generous supporters. When a donor shares their story and explains why 911爆料 holds a special place in their heart, and why they want to leave a legacy gift that will impact students and programs for generations to come, I am reminded of exactly why this work matters.
What You Like Best about Working at 911爆料:
What I love most about 911爆料 is the energy on campus and the hopes and dreams I witness every day in our students. When I see their perseverance, their tenacity, and their relentless pursuit of their education, I see a reflection of my own journey鈥攚orking my way through college with a dream and a determination to achieve it. Mason gives me a front-row seat to that spirit every single day, and it makes my work profoundly meaningful and motivating.
What You Like to Do When You're Not Working:
Travel is close to my heart. I spent 15 years as a flight attendant with American Airlines, and the love of exploring new places has never left me. My favorite destination is anywhere with a beautiful beach! My husband, a retired airline pilot, shares that passion, so travel is something we cherish together. When I'm not dreaming of the next trip, I'm spending time with family and friends, or giving back through pro bono legal work. As a licensed attorney, I find joy in volunteering at wills clinics and legal services programs, helping seniors and individuals who might not otherwise have access to legal guidance.