Pattern Recognition Is My Superpower

I had an unexpected reflection this week after interviewing for a strategic communications role. While technically I was the candidate, and honestly I should have been nervous because it was an opportunity I was ideally suited for, but it felt more like a strategy session. There was an easy exchange of ideas and thoughtful reflectionsContinue reading “Pattern Recognition Is My Superpower”

When “Giving Back” Becomes Your Day Job

Salary for social respect. Competition for collaboration. Structure for stretch. Sounds good, right? I made the leap from corporate marketing and PR into nonprofit development five years ago. My fundraising experience to that point had mostly been as a volunteer, donor, and board member. I’ll admit, I had no idea how different it would feelContinue reading “When “Giving Back” Becomes Your Day Job”

Building a Culture of Philanthropy From the Inside Out

Why would a nonprofit launch its biggest fundraising campaign to staff before going public to potential donors? Because program staff are not just employees — they are the most important stakeholders. This may not seem like an obvious step in the nonprofit sector. After all, you need donors — lots of them — to fuelContinue reading “Building a Culture of Philanthropy From the Inside Out”

Major Gifts: The Power of Personal Connection

People don’t give because of data points. They give because they care. At the major gift level, donors aren’t simply giving — they’re investing. They want to know their support will fuel lasting change, not just a short-term result. That’s why, at our recent Breakthrough Central Texas event, we designed the program to draw peopleContinue reading “Major Gifts: The Power of Personal Connection”

Who Said 50 Was the Finish Line?

Taking on a big, unfamiliar challenge and seeing it through has been a powerful affirmation: I’m still growing, gaining strength, and building momentum. I’m showing up with more clarity, capacity, and drive than ever before.

Unapologetically, Myself

We are all whole human beings with complex identities and none of us can be defined solely by the work that we do. Our identities and our roles intersect continuously.  I am a feminist and social justice advocate. I like to create and build things. My tool kit is sales and marketing. I am anContinue reading Unapologetically, Myself

Finding Joy in the Tumult

I spent the last year of my life helping people find their joy – in fact, it was part of my job description. Now, in the face of an unanticipated setback, the profound sense of joy I found in helping others is grounding me in gratitude in the face of tumult and change. Throughout myContinue reading “Finding Joy in the Tumult”