Virtual Engagement Officers
Starting in Fall 2026, the Washington State University Foundation is launching a Virtual Engagement Officer (VEO) program, powered by artificial intelligence. VEOs are an exciting new technology that allows WSU to directly connect with more donors than ever before, learn more about the generous donors who invest in WSU’s success, and create new pathways for philanthropy.
The VEO program features two AI-powered fundraisers – Cam and Jill – who will connect with WSU donors primarily through email and text messaging to share relevant news, events, and information about philanthropy, while also helping to learn about our donors’ priorities and connecting them with the areas they want to support the most.
Frequently Asked Questions
The VEO is contacting donors who have shown generosity and commitment to WSU. The program will only reach out to specific individuals identified by WSU Foundation staff as potential good fits for VEO engagement. Individuals may opt out of VEO engagement at any time, and those interested in hearing from a VEO can complete WSU’s online interest form here.
No. The VEO program is here to support the work of our dedicated development staff, not to replace anyone. Connecting with the tens of thousands of WSU alumni and supporters every year is a huge undertaking, and VEOs are designed to help contact and engage with donors who otherwise aren’t hearing directly from WSU right now. WSU Foundation staff play a critical role in supporting philanthropy at the university and this program is intended to supplement their important work.
Yes. The Version2 VEO is purpose-built for fundraising only, which means it uses computing resources more efficiently than a general-use AI model. As technology evolves, the efficiency of resources is expected to improve. The VEO also is intended to help WSU connect with donors in ways that use fewer resources like printed mailings or travel. The university is actively engaged in dozens of climate-related research initiatives and we believe that the potential positive impact of using the VEO to generate additional support, including for this research, outweighs the potential drawbacks.
If donors express intent to give, the VEO will direct them to the main WSU online giving site (give.wsu.edu). VEOs will NEVER ask you to provide passwords, login credentials, credit card, banking, or financial information. All data and personal information is handled according to the WSU Foundation Privacy Policy and the Version2 Security Policy.
The VEO is trained to pass a conversation on to WSU staff if it can’t answer or if the individual requests staff support. The VEO will not engage in discussions that are deemed to be inappropriate, sensitive, or that it is unable to answer. WSU works closely with Version2 to provide accurate background information, monitor VEO conversations, and quickly respond when needed.
If you have a question about the VEO program, want to update your communication preferences, or would like to speak with a member of our team, please email us at annual.giving@wsu.edu or call the WSU Foundation at 509-335-6686.