Blackbaud Security Incident Notification

TO: NKU Alumni and Donors
FR: Eric Gentry, Vice President, University Advancement and Executive Director, NKU Foundation Inc.
RE: Blackbaud Security Incident Notification

Northern Kentucky University was informed of a data security incident at Blackbaud, a third-party vendor with whom we work.

Blackbaud is one of the world's largest providers of customer relationship management systems for nonprofit organizations like us. We have worked with this vendor for more than 30 years to manage our alumni and donor database.

In May of 2020, Blackbaud discovered and stopped a ransomware attack while working with independent forensics experts and federal law enforcement. We were alerted to the situation in July and have been working with the vendor to learn more about the incident.

It is important to note that the NKU Foundation does not keep records such as social security numbers, credit card or bank account information on this platform. Therefore, we can conclude that the information obtained, if any, is likely limited to giving history, contact information and/or NKU-sponsored events you have attended. Please view the FAQs below if you are interested in learning more about the incident.

We continue to work with Blackbaud to address this issue and to take the appropriate steps to prevent future incidents. In the spirit of continued commitment to the safety of the information of our donors, alumni and friends, we are also reevaluating data management practices, including our relationship with this vendor, and our use of hosted services.

The University and Foundation regret any inconvenience this may cause to you. Please know that as Blackbaud and law enforcement continue their investigations, we will keep you updated. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at Foundation@nku.edu.

Sincerely,

Eric Gentry
Vice President, University Advancement
Executive Director, NKU Foundation Inc.
Office: AC 822
Phone: (859) 572-5129
Email: gentrye3@nku.edu