Blair Scholars Then & Now: A Series
Sarwat Maqbool
Executive Officer
Australian National University ANU College of Law
In 2021, I found myself at a pivotal point in my career, navigating the complexities of a world recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The tertiary education sector was facing a financial downturn, and professional development budgets were limited, making it a challenge for many industries. Amid this, donor relations practices were evolving rapidly, and I saw an opportunity to enhance my own career by gaining international exposure to donor relations professionals and their strategies. This led me to apply for the Sheryl A. Blair Scholarship, a platform that promised quality learning, a global network of professionals, and the chance to elevate my professional profile.
The journey began with the virtual 2021 ADRP annual conference. As someone based in Canberra, Australia, I attended the live sessions from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., adjusting to the time zone challenges. Despite the late hours, I quickly found a strong sense of community with fellow conference attendees. We shared experiences, supported one another, and encouraged each other through the long sessions. Those connections became an important source of professional and personal support.
A particularly special opportunity during my time as a Blair Scholar was the chance to participate in the ADRP mentoring program. Through this, I formed a meaningful relationship with my mentor, a bond that extended far beyond the program's conclusion. The guidance and advice I received from my mentor were invaluable, and our connection continued to thrive long after our formal mentoring sessions ended.
One of the standout moments of my time as a Blair Scholar came in February 2022, when I had the honor of delivering my first ADRP webinar. This was a major milestone in my donor relations career, and I recognized that it would not have been possible without the scholarship, the mentorship I received, and the encouragement of my peers. It was a moment of professional growth and confidence, one that affirmed the importance of the scholarship and the opportunities it provided.
Since then, my career has taken an exciting new direction. In 2022, I transitioned from a role focused solely on donor relations to an executive officer position at the Australian National University. I am now responsible for strategic planning, international institutional partnerships, business development, and special projects as identified by the college executive. Although my responsibilities have expanded beyond donor relations, the principles of stewardship and relationship management that I honed during my time as a Blair Scholar continue to be integral to my success. Whether it’s negotiating with partners, managing challenging conversations, or demonstrating the impact of various projects, the lessons I learned in donor relations have proven to be invaluable in my new role.
Reflecting on my journey, I am deeply grateful for the Sheryl A. Blair Scholarship and the doors it has opened for me. It provided not only professional development but also a community of like-minded professionals who continue to inspire and support me.
