The NAADD Executive Committee has announced that applications for its mentor program are now being accepted. One of the Executive Committee's goals is to maximize the inclusion of all athletics fundraising personnel, by creating an opportunity for NAADD members to develop a mentor-mentee relationship with a member of the NAADD Executive Committee.

Bobby Purcell has served in a number of capacities since joining the NC State athletics department in 1981. He was Executive Director of the Wolfpack Club from 1991 until he retired in 2020 and in July of 2020, he was named a Special Assistant to Athletics Director Boo Corrigan. Purcell has been a champion for mentoring fundraisers on his campus and around the nation his entire career. Purcell's influence is widespread in college athletics, as 26 former staff members serve at other universities, including 1 athletic director: Jimmy Bass at UNC-Wilmington. This continued focus on broadening the learning opportunities for the entire membership will allow our organization and our campuses to draw on the power of fresh ideas and perspectives. Purcell served as NAADD President in 2004-05, and was named the 2007 NAADD Fundraiser of the Year and 2014 NAADD Lifetime Achievement honoree.

"My experience as a mentee in the Bobby Purcell Mentorship Program has been truly impactful, both personally and professionally," said Nathan Docter, Bobby Purcell Mentor Program 2024-25 participant and current Associate Director, Operations at Brown University. "I am incredibly thankful to my mentor, Dan Cloran, for being so gracious with his time and providing thoughtful insights on how he manages his wide-ranging responsibilities. Dan is now not only a mentor but a true friend in the industry. I would encourage any rising athletic administrator to apply and participate in the Bobby Purcell Mentorship Program. Thank you to the NAADD Executive Committee for providing these opportunities and investing in me."

"My experience as a mentee in the Bobby Purcell Mentor Program has been truly transformative," said Hannah Campbell, Bobby Purcell Mentor Program 2024-25 participant and current Assistant AD, Development at the United States Air Force Academy. "I am deeply grateful to Mahmood Sheikh for his invaluable time, guidance, and unwavering support, which have been instrumental in my growth both personally and professionally. More than just a mentor, Mahmood has become a lifelong friend, and his impact on my journey is immeasurable. As I continue advancing in my career in college athletics, I will always look back on this experience as a defining moment. Thank you to  NACDA &  NAADD leadership for providing unparalleled professional development opportunities that are second to none."

CLICK HERE to apply for the 2025 Bobby Purcell Mentor Program.

Objective: Create an opportunity for NAADD members to develop a mentor-mentee relationship with a member of the NAADD Executive Committee to learn more about the development profession and to broaden his/her network. The mentor program will consist of a campus visit to the Executive Committee member's institution, regular "check-ins" throughout the year and one-on-one interaction at the NAADD Convention.

Eligibility: Open to NAADD members that have a minimum of 5 years full time experience in an intercollegiate athletics department. Those individuals working in other areas of athletics – i.e. Sports info, Marketing, etc. are eligible as long as they are current NAADD members.

Stipend: Each winner will receive $2,500 to use between the 2025 NAADD convention and expenses related to the on-campus visit with their mentor.
To be considered for the Bobby Purcell Mentor Program, applications must be submitted by Friday, February 28.

Questions regarding the program application can be directed to Cam Trudell (ctrudell@nacda.com) in the NACDA Office.