Our Team
Aaron Craven and Andy Clifton are career advancement professionals who have designed and implemented successful fundraising strategies across independent schools and nonprofit organizations.
They created The Advancement Playbook to make these tools available to organizations everywhere—instantly.
Why We Built The Advancement Playbook
We heard one question over and over again: "Can I just have the tools you're already using?"
So we built a solution that delivers exactly that. We’re not here to consult for the sake of consulting. We’re here to give you what you need and get out of your way.
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Cofounder, Creative Director
Aaron Craven is a dynamic leader in philanthropy and community engagement, known for combining strategic thinking with a deep understanding of relationship-driven fundraising. Aaron has led high-impact initiatives that have significantly advanced institutional goals. His background as an educator, project manager, and certified SCRUM Master uniquely positions him to design and implement effective, actionable strategies that build trust and deliver results.
Before transitioning to advancement, Aaron spent more than two decades working in and alongside nonprofits as a music educator, conductor, and community leader, building one of the Southeast’s largest independent school orchestra programs. He holds degrees in music education and performance from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and the University of Tennessee, and currently performs as Principal Bass with the Western Piedmont Symphony. Aaron brings the same creativity, discipline, and collaborative spirit to his work in philanthropy—and through The Advancement Playbook, he’s committed to helping schools and nonprofits build momentum, engage donors, and achieve lasting impact.
Aaron Craven
aaroncraven@theadvancementplaybook.com -
Cofounder, Engagement Director
Andy Clifton is a seasoned advancement professional and relationship builder with a unique background that blends education, corporate client development, and strategic philanthropy. Andy has helped lead major initiatives that have driven significant growth in philanthropic support and stakeholder engagement. His ability to build trust, cultivate meaningful connections, and execute forward-thinking plans has been central to his success in both nonprofit and corporate settings.
With nearly two decades of experience in education and nonprofit leadership—and prior experience in corporate client development—Andy brings a thoughtful, mission-driven perspective to every partnership. He holds a master’s degree in education from Wake Forest University and has served in diverse roles including educator, coach, site director of a teacher training program, and co-chair of an accreditation process. Andy is passionate about helping schools and nonprofits move their missions forward—and through The Advancement Playbook, he’s committed to helping others turn great ideas into meaningful impact.
Andy Clifton
andyclifton@theadvancementplaybook.com