Snapshot:
Elliot Wolf

Title: Development Associate for Marketing.

Duties: Supporting the fundraising effort for Scripps Research by conducting marketing research, writing proposals, preparing reports for donors, overseeing direct mail campaigns, and generating other philanthropy-related communications.

Started at Scripps Research: October 11, 2004.

First Impressions: "I love it! I've already learned so much. I like the people. The environment is terrific. The Development Department is highly professional. I keep pinching myself to make sure I'm awake!"

Background: Born in Detroit. Came to California with his family and attended La Jolla High School. B.A. in political science from the University of California Berkeley. M.A. in business and public administration from University of California Irvine. Some 20 years experience in marketing for public and nonprofit groups, most recently as director of marketing for San Diego's Jewish Federation.

Goals: Research toward a better understanding of the development base for Scripps Research. "Why are people giving? What do they think of Scripps Research? Are donors happy with the acknowledgment they receive? Answers to these questions could help us become more effective." Also, recruiting new donors through direct mail and leveraging Internet and e-mail technology to spread the word about Scripps Research.

Biggest Challenge: Public confusion between Scripps Research and other organizations carrying the "Scripps" name.

Outlook: "The institute's development potential is unlimited."

Extracurriculars: Family activities with his wife, Cindy, nine-year-old son, Devin, and seven-year-old daughter, Kendra. Also, camping, running, reading, and falling asleep in front of episodes of "Survivor."

Send comments to: mikaono[at]scripps.edu

"The institute's development potential is unlimited," says Elliot Wolf, the new development associate for marketing. Photo by Kevin Fung.