USD Foundation & Alumni Association to Launch Virtual Engagement Officer to Enhance Donor Experience

General image of students walking on USD's campus.

The University of South Dakota Foundation & Alumni Association is introducing a new way for alumni and friends to stay connected to the causes they care about most.

Through a partnership with Givzey Version2.ai, the foundation is launching Elizabeth, a virtual engagement officer powered by artificial intelligence. Elizabeth is designed to provide timely, personalized communication through two-way email and text messaging.

This new approach makes it easier for alumni and supporters to stay informed, share feedback and engage with the university in meaningful ways. From updates on programs and initiatives to event invitations and opportunities to get involved, Elizabeth helps ensure communication is relevant, responsive and aligned with individual interests to deepen relationships over time.

"Our goal is to make every interaction with our alumni and friends thoughtful, personal and meaningful," said Noah Shepard, president and CEO of the USD Foundation & Alumni Association. "Elizabeth helps us stay connected in ways that are timely and relevant while ensuring our team remains accessible when someone wants to have a deeper conversation."

Elizabeth will engage alumni across a wide range of experiences. She will share updates, invite feedback, highlight opportunities for giving and connect individuals with staff members when they want to have a deeper conversation.

Transparency is central to this initiative. Alumni will always know when they are communicating with a virtual engagement officer powered by AI. All interactions are supported by responsible data practices designed to protect privacy and ensure secure, trustworthy communication.

By expanding personalized and transparent outreach, the foundation is advancing a forward-looking, technology-enabled approach to engagement, making it easier for alumni and friends to support students, faculty and programs at the University of South Dakota.

More information is available at usdalumni.ai.