Sept. 20, 2004

Go behind the scenes and learn how the Athletic Department staff prepares for the 2004 football season. Each week, Cardinal Commitment will feature a different member of the staff that will discus his/her role with the Stanford Football program. Darcie Bransford (Director of Annual Giving) is this week's guest.

CC: What are you doing on a daily basis to prepare for the upcoming football game?

DB: The members of the development staff make sure the Athletic Department donors are well taken care of. We field calls from donors each day and do everything we can to make their football game day experience an enjoyable one.

CC: What is your most important job on game day?

DB: Each member of the development team staffs the various areas where donors congregate. This includes the tailgating area of Chuck Taylor Grove and the G.A. Richards Press Box.

CC: If you could tell the average fan one thing about Stanford Football that they may not know, what would that be?

DB: Stanford awards 85 football scholarships each year. All 85 scholarships are funded through gifts from our generous donors. The Buck/Cardinal Club and the endowed scholarship program allow Stanford football players to excel academically and athletically.

CC: What is your most memorable Stanford Football experience?

DB: I will never forget the 2000 Rose Bowl. I feel so lucky to have been a part of the entire experience. Seeing the game from the sideline and watching the Stanford team run through the tunnel to take the field are memories I will never forget!

CC: What does "Cardinal Commitment" mean to you? DB: To me, Cardinal Commitment exemplifies what the Stanford Athletic Department is all about ... Hundreds of coaches, student-athletes and staff working together to achieve common goals.