Deborah has been a results-oriented leader of multiple community, education, arts, and environment organizations, including Walker Art Center, University of Minnesota, and Great Plains Institute. As a senior advisor at Access Philanthropy, she brings experience in multiple nonprofit sectors, helping clients as needed with fundraising strategies, grant writing, donor programs, board development, and organizational growth. As example of past work, as Chief Operating Officer at Great Plains Institute and Executive Director of Great River Greening, she:
- Worked with the CEO to chart Great Plains Institute’s next phases of growth and impact. At the time, Great Plains Institute doubled in size from $5 million to $10 million with employees throughout the country. She optimized internal operations, including annual strategy and budgeting cycle, development, finance, communications, HR, and information technology.
- Directed the geographic and operational growth of Great River Greening from a Saint Paul project to a state restoration leader with a 150% growth. She expanded the footprint and reputation, grew the staff, spearheaded a comprehensive fundraising program, and helped to build a fundraising board.
PhD University of Minnesota; MLA Harvard Graduate School of Design
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