Building an Innovative and Multi-Faceted Approach to University Recruiting

As Blackbaud continues to navigate the innovative world of virtual/hybrid campus recruiting, the team took the opportunity to expand their university portfolio, diversify student organization outreach and leverage internal and external technology to effectively recruit remotely. Although in-person events took place at nearby colleges when able to be done safely during the pandemic, Blackbaud focused on high touch, strategically planned virtual events that allowed students 1:1 interaction with leaders, recruiters, and affinity groups to get a glimpse of what a day in the life of a Blackbaud employee looks like.

Crafting a Standout Candidate Experience

In 2021, Blackbaud was able to provide virtual internship opportunities across the globe to ensure students were able to have an engaging, accommodating, and rewarding learning experience. In keeping diversity, equity, and inclusion on the forefront, Blackbaud’s Early Career Talent and University Programs team aimed to not only recruit an inclusive class of interns, but to also invest in converting, developing, and retaining them. By assigning challenging and strategic projects, developmental opportunities and encouraging exposure to leadership, the team structured their summer programming to influence students to feel a sense of belonging at Blackbaud through first-hand experiences.

Moving the Needle on Diversity & Inclusion

The Early Career Talent team at Blackbaud is passionate about building a diverse pipeline of future leaders, which requires a strategy revolving around both recruitment, programming, and career progression for students. The team continues to diversify the university portfolio to further expand relationships with HBCUs, HSIs, as well as nationally recognized student organizations. Once interns are hired, Blackbaud propels students into an immersive experience where they can connect with affinity groups, diverse leadership, and mentorship throughout the summer. By investing in developing and converting students to succeed long term at Blackbaud, incorporating diversity program elements into the intern experience is integral to foster that culture of belonging they aim to provide.