Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, highlights the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of the next generation of nonprofit leaders and serves as a resource for new fundraising professionals.
Join us as we delve into the essential strategies, insights, and experiences that shape successful fundraising careers.
Subscribe to discover actionable tips, best practices, and personal stories from both your fellow emerging leaders, as well as seasoned industry experts.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your skills, Rising Voices will empower you to elevate your fundraising game and drive meaningful change. Your path to professional growth starts here.
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Next-Gen Impact: Navigating Donor Communication with Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z Donors
Episode 2
Thursday, August 15, 2024 • Duration 20:57
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, we look at generational differences and how they factor into our fundraising. How can emerging leaders help our organizations connect with Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z donors? Hosts Emily and Allison are joined by Abbi Haggerty, Sara Greene, Annie Rae Carlton, and Miranda Huffer, a multi-generational development team at the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance.
Guests:
Abbi Haggerty – Executive Director
Abbi was named Executive Director of Richmond Performing Arts Alliance in 2019 after serving the organization in senior-level development roles. With more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Abbi has expertise in organizational management, strategic planning, community engagement, fundraising, governance, and program design. In prior positions, she worked for VMFA, Museum of Science & Industry (Tampa, FL), Brightpoint Community College, and Partnership for Nonprofit Excellence. Abbi earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Virginia Tech and master’s degree and Ph.D. in public policy and administration (with a concentration in nonprofit management) from VCU. She is currently an adjunct assistant professor at University of Richmond in the Nonprofit Studies master's degree program and received the Itzkowitz Family Distinguished Adjunct Faculty Award in 2023. Abbi is Past Board President of AFP-Central Virginia and chairs the Korn Ferry Emerging Leaders professional development webinar series for AFP Global.
Annie Rae Carlton – Development Manager
Annie Rae began her nonprofit career in Georgia before moving to Richmond in 2019. During the early stages of the pandemic, she shifted her focus from non-profit administration and operations to development. She now serves as the Development Manager for Richmond Performing Arts Alliance, overseeing grant writing and special events. In collaboration with the Development Team, she works to meet fundraising goals and secure essential support for RPAA’s diverse programs and events. Annie holds a BA in Sociology from the University of North Georgia.
Sara Greene – Director of Development
Sara has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 20 years. She joined the RPAA team in April, 2013 and has held several titles throughout her tenure with the organization. In her current role as Director of Development she oversees RPAA’s overall fundraising strategies and the work of the Development Team and Associates Board. The Team works collaboratively to meet contributed revenue goals that sustain the work and mission of RPAA through the Annual Fund, grants, corporate sponsorships, special events, the endowment, and more. She holds a BA in Sociology from the University of Mary Washington.
Miranda Huffer – Development Coordinator & Board Liaison (They, Them)
In their role at RPAA, Miranda manages donor data and communications as well as board logistics while also providing support to the development team on events, grants, and other fundraising needs. Since joining the team in 2023, Miranda has collaborated with the development team to expand RPAA's fundraising capabilities and find new and effective techniques for fundraising and board engagement. They graduated from William & Mary with a degree in Sociology and American Studies, and have been working in non-profit development for over two years.
Hosts:
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Who Me? Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Fundraising
Episode 1
Tuesday, July 16, 2024 • Duration 20:00
In this first episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, we break down the myths, stereotypes, and feelings of imposter syndrome that emerging leaders and BIPOC fundraisers commonly face. Mojdeh Cox and Michelle Flores Vryn, CFRE join hosts Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP and Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP to share their moments of doubt and the steps they’ve taken to embrace their personal and professional potential.
Guests:
Mojdeh Cox, Principle, Cox and Co.: Mojdeh Cox brings people together to have challenging conversations around complex issues and develop and execute action plans. For over a decade, Mojdeh has coached organizational and community leaders, businesses, and nonprofit organizations re-imagining their work through a heightened equity lens. Mojdeh speaks, writes, and provides media commentary on issues impacting communities.
Michelle Flores Vryn, CFRE, Head of Development, iNaturalist: Michelle Flores Vryn, CFRE (she/her/ella) has 15 years of nonprofit experience, raising funds for climate change and biodiversity, education, and civic engagement. She has worked in all facets of development: major gifts, institutional giving, membership, capital campaigns, consulting, special events, and annual giving.
Michelle sees herself as a lifelong learner, disruptor, and cross-sectoral community-builder. Michelle is passionate about supporting and mentoring Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) nonprofit professionals and creating better workplace cultures where they can thrive. She is a proud board member of Mission Capital and AFP Global. When not at work, Michelle enjoys watching beauty and makeup tutorials on YouTube, meditating, enjoying local trails and spontaneously dropping in on live music around Austin.
Hosts:
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
When It’s Time to Go: Evaluating a Potential Job Transition in Fundraising
Episode 3
Thursday, September 19, 2024 • Duration 17:28
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, we discuss the difficult questions we ask ourselves when we’re contemplating leaving a job: Can I get a bump in salary at my current organization? What am I really looking for out of a job change? Do I have the right skills to apply to a new position? How do I balance pursuing my passion with setting appropriate work/life boundaries? Derek Mulhern, CEO & executive leadership coach at Derek Mulhern Coaching & Consulting, shares how to evaluate the pros and cons and make the career move that’s right for you.
Guests:
Derek Mulhern, PCC, ACCC – Executive Life & Leadership Coach
The son of a dairy farmer in Fountain, Minnesota, Derek was raised in a family that valued perseverance. From a young age, he understood the importance of ambitiously creating his future.
Derek started his training and coaching career working with college students. He championed them to unlock their potential by creating powerful connections and fearlessly speaking truth.
When he moved to Washington, DC, he brought these leadership skills and coaching goals to the nonprofit sector. Derek knows how to manage and transform individual contributors to be part of productive, high-functioning teams. During his time in the nonprofit sector, Derek observed various leadership styles to build an approach that acknowledges how decision-making impacts the team. He has seen first-hand how effective leaders build teams who generate creativity, impart their passions, and strengthen their organizations.
Drawing on his rich experience in the nonprofit sector, Derek’s career in coaching aims to help leaders and executives create unstoppable organizations that shape the future of work, rather than simply reacting to it. Derek believes in the power of transforming relationships by transforming yourself – and he wants to help you see that power, too.
Hosts:
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Mastering Professional Feedback: Growth Through Constructive Conversations
Episode 4
Thursday, October 17, 2024 • Duration 17:41
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, we asked the attendees at AFP’s annual leadership conference, AFP LEAD, to share with us their best advice for how to give and receive professional feedback. Members from all generations and career stages share how to ensure that the feedback we’re giving and receiving is constructive, and beneficial for career growth.
Year-End Inspiration: Fundraising Successes of 2024
Episode 5
Thursday, November 21, 2024 • Duration 17:07
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, fundraisers from across the sector reflect on their most inspiring wins of 2024. From record-breaking campaigns to transformative donor relationships, these stories highlight the creativity and resilience driving the profession forward. Tune in for a dose of motivation as you gear up for the crucial year-end giving season.
Trends and Data-Driven Strategies from the Fundraising Effectiveness Project
Episode 6
Thursday, December 19, 2024 • Duration 18:55
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, we sit down with the chief data officer for GivingTuesday, Woodrow Rosenbaum. He shares with us the trends from the Q3 2024 Fundraising Effectiveness Project report and how fundraisers can make practical use of this data in their fundraising strategies. Download the Q3 Report.
Guest:
Woodrow Rosenbaum: As Chief Data Officer for GivingTuesday, Woodrow has been instrumental in shaping the global generosity movement and has led ground-breaking research and analysis of individual giving behaviors. He leads the GivingTuesday Data Commons, bringing together a coalition of more than 1,000 collaborators coordinated through eight working groups as well as data teams in 50 countries to understand the drivers and impacts of generosity to inspire more giving of all types. Woodrow brings expertise in moving markets and transforming audiences from passive participants to active and vocal ambassadors. Woodrow is also the founder of With Intent Strategies, an international agency specializing in brand reimagination. Woodrow is a member of the Generosity Commission Research Task Force, is a past Co-Chair for Global Impact Canada’s Board of Directors where he now serves as strategic advisor, and was previously a Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School.
Hosts:
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Navigating Power Dynamics in Fundraising: Advocating for Ourselves in Donor Relationships
Episode 8
Thursday, February 20, 2025 • Duration 21:49
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, we discuss the challenging power dynamics that can exist between donors, and ourselves as fundraisers. How do characteristics such as race, gender, sexuality, or age impact how we are perceived and treated by donors? AFP ICON 2025 speakers Laurel McCombs and Robert Osborne share the strategies they’ve learned over the last four years of presenting on this topic, providing emerging leaders and fundraisers of all career levels with a toolkit for navigating challenging situations and continuing the conversation at their organizations and throughout the sector. To learn more, check out their session, Navigating Power Dynamics in Fundraising, at AFP ICON 2025 in Seattle, April 27-29.
Guests:
Laurel MCombs: Laurel McCombs brings more than 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector and a passion for the role philanthropy can play in changing the world to her work as a consultant and trainer with The Osborne Group. Laurel is a well-known speaker presenting well-received workshops for national organizations, universities, as well as AFP ICON, CASE-NAIS, Nonprofit Association of Oregon, and AFP Congress. She works closely with clients on a variety of topics, including donor retention, development operations, planning, donor management, board development and more.
Robert Osborne: Robert is Principal of The Osborne Group, with 30 years of nonprofit experience. He speaks regularly nationally and internationally. Robert serves on the boards of the United Hospital Fund and US Squash, both in New York. He also serves on the International Advisory Board of the Czech Fundraising Center in Czech Republic, the International Advisory Board of the Impact Hub Belgrade in Serbia, and the Advisory Board of the Impact Hub Metropolitan in New York. He is a studio partner and co-founder of Studio X Ventures, a venture studio for social impact startups in the Western Balkans.
Hosts:
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Amplifying Impact: Digital Fundraising and Social Media for Today’s Nonprofits
Episode 7
Thursday, January 16, 2025 • Duration 19:41
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The Emerging Leaders Podcast, nonprofit digital consultant, AFP ICON speaker, and author, Julia Campbell, discusses how nonprofits can be effective storytellers in the digital world. She shares the trends she is seeing, such as the success of short form educational video content and the role of AI in content creation, plus how emerging leaders can advocate for digital innovation at their organizations.
Guest:
Julia Campbell: Named as a top thought leader and one to follow by Forbes and LinkedIn for Nonprofits, and one of the 30 Nonprofit IT Influencers to Follow in 2024, Julia Campbell is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to designing social media and storytelling strategies that help nonprofits share their mission across the digital landscape. An international keynote speaker and host of the acclaimed Nonprofit Nation podcast, she’s written two books for nonprofits on social media and storytelling, and her online courses, webinars, and talks have helped hundreds of nonprofits make the shift to digital thinking.
Hosts:
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Pioneering Presentations: Insights from a First-Time Fundraising Conference Speaker
Episode 9
Thursday, March 20, 2025 • Duration 22:19
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The AFP Emerging Leaders Podcast, Keith Greer and Carissa Konesky, two presenters from AFP ICON 2025, offer tips for overcoming imposter syndrome, submitting a proposal that gets selected, and engaging your audience with an interesting session. We discuss how presenting at an AFP event can boost your career and increase the visibility of your organization’s fundraising efforts.
To learn more, check out their session, From Inspiration to Implementation: Turning Conference Insights into Action, at AFP ICON 2025 in Seattle, April 27-29.
Guests:
Keith Greer, CFRE: University of New Mexico Foundation - Director of Development: Keith Greer, CFRE is Director of Development for the UNM School of Architecture + Planning and host of the podcast, Let's Talk Fundraising. With over a decade of fundraising experience, Keith has lead fundraising for Hawai'i Island's largest hospice organization and was the Director of the ASRT Foundation with work reaching around the globe. Keith is an AFP Chamberlain Scholar as well as an ASAE NextGen Award Winner.
Carissa Konesky, CFRE: Simon Fraser University - Advancement Officer, Leadership Giving: Carissa Konesky, CFRE is based in British Columbia, Canada and works as an Advancement Officer for Leadership Giving at Simon Fraser University. Her passion is building relationships with donors and sharing the causes that she cares about. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree and Nonprofit Management Certificate from SFU, an Associate of Arts Degree from Capilano University, and Associate Certificates in Nonprofit and Fundraising Management from BCIT. She participated in Cohort Four of the AFP Leadership Institute, and has been featured in BC Business magazine as a Top 30 Under 30 and Woman of the Year - Rising Star.
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Replicating Career Success in Fundraising: A Conversation with AFP’s Outstanding Young Professional Award Recipients
Episode 10
Thursday, April 17, 2025 • Duration 13:40
In this episode of Rising Voices of Fundraising: The Emerging Leaders Podcast, our 2025 Outstanding Young Professional award recipients share the strategies that led to amazing fundraising results, as well as the personal career moves they’ve made that have set them up for success. Their advice serves as a blueprint for emerging leaders unsure of how to take their career to the next level.
Abby and Brian will be honored at AFP ICON 2025 in Seattle, April 27-29.
Guests:
Brian Marquez, development officer at the Southern Scholarship Foundation: Starting as a development coordinator at Elder Care Services (ECS) in Tallahassee, Brian introduced initiatives such as a quarterly impact report that highlighted to donors the valuable role their contributions played in creating positive change at the senior service agency. These stewardship-focused efforts resulted in increased donor retention, including inspiring one donor to triple their gift from the previous year. As a queer Latino, Brian’s leadership at ECS extended beyond fundraising. While chair of ECS’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Brian launched an effort to translate materials into Spanish, and secured SAGE certification for ECS, ensuring the organization was a welcoming and affirming space for LGBTQ+ seniors.
While the industry as a whole continues to struggle to retain and recruit new donors, Brian is defying trends with a focus on meaningful donor engagement that has contributed to a 5% increase in retention, a 7% increase in first-time donors, and a 17% increase in monthly donors. His use of automated, segmented campaigns celebrating donor milestones and personalized welcome campaigns for new donors reflect Brian’s ability to embrace new technology in fostering relationships.
Beyond his professional achievements, Brian has made a profound impact as a volunteer and advocate. As president of the AFP FL, Big Bend Chapter, he has significantly increased attendance and engagement by fostering collaborations with local nonprofit leaders. Additionally, he is deeply committed to advancing LGBTQ+ equality, serving on the board of Equality Florida and contributing to policy initiatives through the City of Tallahassee Mayor’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Council.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
Abby Trahan, MPA, CFRE, development officer II, at the University of Houston: In her first professional role as annual giving coordinator for the Houston Food Bank, Abby grew the monthly giving program by 60%, generating $3 million in dependable annual revenue with a remarkable 96% donor retention rate. Beyond the numbers, she created a culture of gratitude and stewardship through innovations such as a new tool for tracking donor touchpoints and a cross-departmental letter writing day to personally thank donors.
In her successive roles as development officer I and II for the University of Houston, Abby has significantly expanded the organization’s capacity to attract and retain major donors, resulting in multiple six-figure gifts, including a $1 million commitment, as well as the University of Houston Law Center’s first endowed professorship during the current dean’s tenure. Her talents extend beyond major gifts, also facilitating a peer-to-peer campaign that raised $113,000—the highest in four years.
As an active member of AFP since 2018, Abby has demonstrated her leadership at the chapter level, serving as communications chair for National Philanthropy Day and mentoring emerging professionals through the Greater Houston Chapter’s Collegiate Chapters program. Abby also earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential just three years after joining the profession, showcasing her commitment to her future career in fundraising.
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Emily Leitzinger, CFRE, CNP, Director of National Leadership Giving, Cure SMA: Emily Leitzinger is a fundraising executive with over 15 years of experience driving organizational growth and sustainability through innovative fundraising strategies and donor engagement. She currently serves as the Director of National Leadership Giving at Cure SMA and is particularly proud of launching the first-ever Legacy Society for the organization. Emily is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in philanthropy, as noted in her Master's capstone. In this project, she examines the effects of donor influence on nonprofit operations and proposes frameworks for more balanced and ethical donor engagement. A chartering member and past president of the Mid-City, New Orleans Rotary Club, Emily is affectionately known as the Deputy Governor of "Yes" and is set to become the District Governor of District 6840. In addition to her professional achievements, she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, and craft beer, and is a huge fan of The Office. She lives in New Orleans with her Elvis-impersonating husband, Mike.
Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier, CFRE, ACNP, GPC, CAP, Founder & CEO, AQP Consulting & Executive Director, ENP: Dr. Allison Quintanilla Plattsmier has fourteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector and has collectively raised approximately $5 million for over 75 organizations. She serves as Executive Director of ENP and runs her own nonprofit consulting firm, AQP Consulting, where she helps grassroots nonprofits with fundraising strategy, strategic planning, board development, and grant writing.
Allison is a vocal advocate for gender parity, closing the wage gap, and ending the motherhood penalty. With accolades such as AFP’s Outstanding Young Fundraising Professional, NBJ’s 40 Under 40, NBJ’s Women of Influence, a National Latino Leader, and the Women Who Rock Nashville Social Justice Award, Dr. Quintanilla Plattsmier strives to serve and better her community every day. A dedicated AFP member for the last seven years, Allison currently chairs the Women's Impact Initiative (WII) Mentorship Program and serves on the LEAD Education Advisory Committee. When she is not out serving her community, she is spending time with her three kids, Quintan, Karina, and Kamren.
