For the purposes of this assignment, assume that the major gift prospect has already been identified and researched to determine gift ability and affinity to the purpose for the gift. Also, a Board member knows the prospect well and has agreed to help with the cultivation and solicitation.
Prepare a one-page letter to the prospect from the Board member asking for a meeting with the Board member and you, the Major Gift Officer.
Do not go into great detail about the case for support, and do not refer to or mention an ask amount - save this for the meeting. Simply provide sincere information that will stimulate the prospect's interest.
Indicate that the Major Gift Officer will follow-up with a phone call to schedule a meeting that includes the prospect, the Board member and the Major Gift Officer.
This is assessed by the student demonstrating an understanding of what to say and how to leverage the prospect's gift ability and affinity to the gift purpose as well as an organizational peer relationship to confirm an appointment with the prospect.