# Wealthyist E60 | Philanthropy From The Heart: How Ultra-Wealthy Donors Turn Simple Giving Into Transformation with Joan Nesbitt

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/wealthyist-7108446/wealthyist-e60-philanthropy-from-the-heart-how-ultra-wealthy-donors-turn-simple-giving-into-transformation-with-joan-nesbitt
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/wealthyist-7108446/wealthyist-e60-philanthropy-from-the-heart-how-ultra-wealthy-donors-turn-simple-giving-into-transformation-with-joan-nesbitt.md
Podcast: [Wealthyist](https://stenobird.com/podcast/wealthyist-7108446)
Published: 2026-04-22T14:31:11+00:00
Episode link: https://share.transistor.fm/s/a5d6f9aa
Audio file: https://media.transistor.fm/a5d6f9aa/a2d7f880.mp3
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Duration seconds: 2304

## Resource

In this engaging episode of Wealthyist , host Anthony Mlachnik (Senior Wealth Advisor at Annex Private Client) sits down with Joan Nesbitt , Vice Chancellor for University Advancement at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM). With over 30 years in higher education fundraising—including more than a decade in a similar role at Missouri S&T—Nesbitt shares insights from the front lines of partnering with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, families, and philanthropists to create lasting impact through education. The conversation opens with Nesbitt's journey from Oklahoma roots (complete with a relaxed attitude toward Midwest tornado warnings and tennis during sirens) through Missouri to her current role in Wisconsin. She reflects on her accidental entry into fundraising in the 1980s and the shift from smaller nonprofits to better-resourced higher ed environments. Key topics include: Evolving donor strategies : Most annual gifts still come simply as checks or credit cards from income, but high-capacity donors leverage sophisticated vehicles like stock donations , charitable remainder trusts , donor-advised funds , and planned/legacy giving tied to life events (e.g., business sales, liquidity events, or RMDs). Shifting alumni engagement : The old assumption of natural alumni loyalty has faded, especially among younger graduates burdened by student debt. Millennials and Gen Z prioritize broad societal impact, justice, and fairness over "helping someone just like me." Nesbitt discusses how UWM is adapting with personalized digital strategies and even piloting AI-driven platforms for scalable, avatar-based donor engagement (surprisingly appealing to those over 50). The power of storytelling and experiences : Annual galas, alumni awards, and heartfelt reflections highlig…

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## Transcript

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