How can I sell the mission of my organization to donors or investors? What are some strategies for effectively managing philanthropic campaigns? How can mentoring and other forms of direct service affect one’s perspective on leadership in the human services sector? On Tuesday, April 25th, the PAFs had the pleasure of asking these questions and more of Heather Malkin Nesle, CCAS BA ’97, GWSB MTA ’99, who is currently the President of the New York Life Foundation.
Heather, who joined the PAF weekly meeting from New York City via WebEx, discussed those professional and service experiences that led her to her current position and shared her perspectives on philanthropic fundraising. Current PAFs arranged this conversation as a part of their efforts to learn how to effectively “ask for money” when working in non-profit or startup settings that depend upon the support of donors and investors. Heather’s comments left PAFs with broad context for success in such endeavors as well as targeted advice that dealt with building and maintaining important relationships. We were also able to benefit from her advice regarding our current initiative to inspire philanthropic giving to the university among current and alumni PAF cohorts! As an added bonus, PAFs were also able to learn from Heather about mentoring, salary negotiation, communications, and management – all very helpful from a professional development standpoint!
We owe a huge thank you to Heather for taking the time to talk to us! PAFs look forward to the opportunity to follow up on this conversation and engage in similar discussions with Heather and other PAF alumni.