B E L I E F S
Values First
Getting to know people, their values, their beliefs and desires is really important. I am known for asking “What brings you joy” the first time I meet you. I don’t want to know your occupation; I want to know much deeper aspects of who you are. When a person can really identify values, motivations, fears and rewards, that person can really find fulfillment. I want to help others find fulfillment.
Center People
Centering individuals most affected by any decision is key in making the decision. There is a saying “Nothing about us without us is for us” (credited to disability rights activists). I believe this is true whether a board is determining a policy, a committee is deciding grants, or a nonprofit organization is creating a program.
Strategy is Key
One of my colleagues said, “Donna is strategic. A lot of people think they are strategic but she is REALLY strategic.” It’s how my brain is wired. I see or learn about the destination and I immediately start working on the actions that will bring me to the destination. I play out what will be barriers to the action and what will boost the actions. I can create a map and timeline to get to the destination.
V A L U E S
Integrity
Equity
Community
Service
Empowerment
P R O F E S S I O N A L E X P E R I E N C E S
Executive Director, Mortenson Family Foundation - 13 years
Director of Development Initiatives and Donor Services Officer, The Saint Paul Foundation/Minnesota Community Foundation - 9 years
Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, Dunwoody College - 5 years