Returning home: Career path brings development officer back to the prairies
Staff Profile: Ben Berger
Position
Development Officer, University Advancement
Areas of Focus
Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Varsity Sports, Faculty of Nursing, and Student Wellness Centre
Hailing from Central Butte, Saskatchewan, Ben earned his Public Relations Certificate, Bachelor of Business Administration degree, and Bachelor of Sport and Recreation Management at the University of Regina. He also holds his Master of Science in Sport Management and a Graduate Certificate in Public Management from Ohio State University. Prior to joining the University Advancement team in June 2023, Ben’s story is characterized by a rich work journey.
Q: What was your work experience prior to taking on your current role with the U of R?
A: From August 2021 to May 2023, I served as a Development Intern with Ohio State's Athletic Department, where I contributed to their annual giving efforts, gained valuable insights into major giving, and actively participated in event planning and stewardship projects. Concurrently, I occupied the position of Graduate Assistant of Competitive Sports at Ohio State, where I oversaw intramurals and sport clubs.
I also worked as a Community Relations Intern for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, which afforded me the opportunity to orchestrate Rider Fan Day and gain a comprehensive understanding of how a professional sports organization operates.
Throughout my time in public service, I worked for the Government of Saskatchewan as a Social Media Analyst, and served the Ministry of Parks, Culture & Sport as a summer intern, delivering presentations to English as a Second Language students on the camping experience in Saskatchewan.
My work experience at the University of Regina began in 2015 as a Regina Cougars Hockey Statistician, which quickly snowballed into various other roles within the Varsity Sport department, and led to a paid internship in the department as a Marketing & Communications Intern with the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies.
Q: What motivated you to pursue the career path of a Development Officer?
A: During my internship with Ohio State's Athletic Department, it became clear to me that I wanted to cultivate my passion for giving back and help to make a positive difference. As a recipient of various student awards, including the Dr. Sandra Schmirler Scholarship, the Sask Sports Glenn Tucker Memorial Scholarship, the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Award, and the Saskatchewan Innovation Opportunity International Scholarship, I knew first-hand the life-changing impact it can have on someone. And so this guided me to want to work with philanthropists who care deeply about education and supporting the success of students.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your role as Development Officer and what it entails?
A: Being a Development Officer is all about forging relationships with individuals and corporations, and connecting their philanthropic goals with causes they feel passionate about. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is having the privilege to witness the profound impact that our alumni and other donors are making through their contributions. Being able to carry out this meaningful work in my home province, and for my alma mater, is fulfilling to me.
Give now to U of R Athletics.
Q: What are some of your favourite hobbies and passions?
A: Sports have always been a strong interest of mine. Growing up in a small town, I played every sport I could, and enthusiastically cheered for teams like the Montréal Canadiens, the Dallas Cowboys, and of course the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Even today, I like to stay active by participating in recreational hockey, slo-pitch, and running.
I'm also an avid traveler and have had the opportunity to visit numerous countries around the world. My favourite destination so far is Nice, France. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend renting a car and driving along the breathtaking coastal road of Monaco.
Volunteering is important to me, and as such I currently volunteer for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and look forward to becoming even more involved in the community here in Regina.
Banner photo credit: Benjamin Berger.