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Laura Eldridge
Director, Planned Giving for The Foundations at Nuvance Health
Professional Background
Laura Eldridge is a highly experienced professional in the fields of institutional advancement, non-profit management, and philanthropy. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Laura has dedicated her career to facilitating dialogue and collaboration between donors and institutions to ensure that philanthropic efforts align with both donor goals and institutional priorities.
Throughout her impressive career, Laura has held several significant leadership roles. Currently, she serves as the Director of Planned Giving at Nuvance Health, where her strategic oversight and donor-focused approach enable her to identify and create innovative philanthropic opportunities. In her previous role as Director of Major and Planned Giving at The Jackson Laboratory, Laura was instrumental in shaping and implementing effective major gift strategies that garnered substantial funding for essential research initiatives.
Before her time at The Jackson Laboratory, Laura held various important positions including Director of Advancement at The Gunnery - Mr. Gunn's School and Director of Development & Planned Giving at Salisbury School. These roles allowed her to expand her expertise in fundraising, donor relations, and program development. Each position honed her skills in creating effective advancement strategies and engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
Laura also has experience in the corporate sector, having worked as an Account Executive at Crew Design Inc. This role enhanced her communications skills and provided her with a unique perspective on branding and marketing, tools she leverages effectively within the non-profit domain. Her strong intermediary skills enable her to build trust and rapport with donors, which is critical in the world of philanthropy.
Additionally, Laura served as the Director of Parent Programs and Leadership Gifts at Kent School, where her leadership in parent engagement initiatives significantly increased participation and investment from the parent community, showcasing her commitment to fostering meaningful relationships that empower schools and other philanthropic institutions.
Education and Achievements
Laura's educational journey began at Penn State University, where she studied General Arts & Sciences along with Marketing & Communications. Her academic background provides her with a solid foundation in communication and a deep understanding of marketing principles—both of which are essential in her role as a donor-focused strategist. The skills she acquired during her studies laid the groundwork for her successful career in institutional advancement.
Notable Achievements
Laura's contributions to the field of institutional advancement are numerous. She has excelled in securing significant funds to propel institutional missions, which reflects her capability as a strategic thinker with an innate ability to uncover philanthropic opportunities. Her commitment to donor-centric practices has resulted in sustained relationships that have positively impacted various organizations she has served.
Furthermore, Laura is recognized for her exceptional interpersonal skills and her ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences. She is known for her capability to inspire others, driving engagement and commitment to philanthropic ventures that support educational and health initiatives. Her impressive track record in building effective advancement programs has demonstrated her understanding of the nuances of donor relations and the philanthropic landscape.
Leadership Approach
Laura Eldridge exemplifies a leadership approach that is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and strategic foresight. She believes that the key to successful philanthropy is to align institutional needs with donor aspirations, creating win-win situations that benefit all parties involved. This philosophy has garnered her respect and admiration in the field, as she continuously advocates for best practices that prioritize relationships and meaningful engagement in the philanthropic process.
