Name: Victoria (Tori) Bothner (She/her)
Title: Assistant Director of Advancement and College Athletics
Organization: University of Rochester
Member since: 2021

How long have you been working in the fundraising profession?
I started full time November 22, 2021.

What do you love most about fundraising?
Fundraising provides me the opportunity to connect the dots between donor’s interests and the needs of programs within our university. The autonomy built into my role and the ability to be creative while developing relationships is so refreshing.

Why did you decide to become a mentee in the AFPGV mentorship program?
I am not new to higher ed, but I am new to this career. Meeting others in this field at different colleges, universities, and non-profit organizations is a fantastic way to surround myself with people who present different points of view and professional experiences.

What do you enjoy most about being an AFPGV member and mentee so far?
The possibilities of becoming more involved (most recently joined the Marketing committee). In addition, I enjoyed attending the local Rochester Conference and felt it to be inspiring and informative.

What example would you give of a helpful strategy or practice you learned from your mentor that you have recently applied in the workplace?
We talk a lot about past experiences and how they may fit into the realm of what I am doing at UR. Different small group events performed by my mentor over the years provided new ideas to consider and implement.

Why is Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (I.D.E.A.) important to you and for the work we do every day as fundraising professionals?
Perspective and life experience is what we bring to our profession. It is important to have a plethora of backgrounds to make the environment most productive and robust.

What is your advice to other AFPGV members?
Get involved. The mentor/mentee program is as meaningful as you will make it. Lean into others within the AFP community - it adds value to both individuals involved.

Let's get to know you! If you would like to be featured in our next member spotlight or would like to nominate someone, please contact us!