Forty Under 40: Jamie B. Banks
by January 1, 2008 12:00 am 299 views
Fundraising was a career Jamie Banks, 36, came into somewhat by accident. But it’s one she has a knack for that has been very rewarding.
The Little Rock native got her start in the field in 1997, working on U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln’s first campaign and finding political fundraising is different from philanthropic development.
“I think I found my niche,” she said. “To me, philanthropy is about matching a donor’s giving with an opportunity that would be the most meaningful for them. When you do it correctly, it’s a win for the donor and a win for the organization.”
Banks started with the University of Arkansas College of Education in 2003 and in that time, she and her team have increased private giving from an annual average of about $3 million to $8 million.
In 2005, the college secured a $10 million gift with a $10 million match. At that time, it was the third-largest private gift ever granted to one college.
She also serves on the board of directors for the Washington Regional Foundation and the Donald W. Reynolds Boys & Girls Club.
Banks comes from a family that placed a high priority on giving back to the community.
“You get what you give,” she said. “And I believe giving to these organizations and causes makes for a better quality of life for everyone in Northwest Arkansas.”