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Leigh Jacobson
Fund Development Executive Leading Transformational Nonprofits
Professional Background
Leigh Jacobson is a highly accomplished Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) with over 20 years of progressively responsible experience in fund development, particularly within the education sector. Her extensive career spans various leadership roles where she has developed and executed successful fundraising strategies, establishing herself as a strategic visionary who is adept at identifying emerging trends in philanthropy. Leigh has a proven record of moving organizations forward, utilizing her management skills, strong values, and decisive leadership style to build sustainable revenue streams and enhance community participation.
Throughout her career, Leigh has excelled in designing innovative fundraising initiatives and integrated multimedia marketing strategies that align with the goals of the organizations she has served. She has successfully secured seven-figure gifts, demonstrating her effectiveness as a skilled fundraiser. Her experience in presenting complex issues to benefactors and key decision-makers has made her a passionate and articulate communicator, enabling her to forge strong relationships with donors and stakeholders alike.
Notable strengths in her skill set include comprehensive campaign strategy and operations, strategic marketing aimed at donor acquisition and upgrades, major and principal gifts solicitation, parent engagement, and management of signature fundraising events. Leigh also possesses expertise in leading high-performing teams, and her strong technical literacy across various donor databases and CRM platforms further enhances her capabilities in the field.
Education and Achievements
Leigh Jacobson holds an impressive academic background, having studied Executive Management at the prestigious Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame, where she acquired a Certificate in advanced management skills tailored for effective leadership. Her foundational training in English literature is underscored by her Master of Arts degree from Arcadia University and a Bachelor of Arts from King's College. This rich educational path has not only honed her communication skills but has also provided her with a thorough understanding of the nuances of the English language, which she applies to her fundraising communications and presentations.
Throughout her career, Leigh has made significant contributions to various educational institutions, notably in her role as the Director of Parent Relations & Giving at Lake Forest Academy. This position has further solidified her reputation as a leader in fund development, where she actively engages parents and alumni to strengthen financial support for the academy.
Career Highlights
Leigh's career has been marked by her involvement in numerous esteemed organizations where she has held a variety of influential positions. Some of her most notable roles include:
- Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving at Wilkes University: Here, she was responsible for enhancing alumni relations and driving annual contributions, helping to foster a culture of giving back.
- Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement - Development & Campaign at King's College: In this leadership role, Leigh played a crucial part in campaign strategies that significantly increased funds for institutional advancement.
- Chief Development Officer at United Way of St. Joseph County: In this capacity, she directed fundraising strategies that supported diverse community initiatives and projects.
- Executive Director of Resource Development/Ivy Tech Foundation at Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana: This role showcased her leadership skills as she guided resource development efforts to support educational programs and student benefits.
Additionally, Leigh has served as an adjunct instructor for English Literature at several institutions, including Misericordia University and Wilkes University. This experience underscores her commitment to education and allows her to mentor and inspire future generations while contributing to their learning journeys.
Leigh’s career trajectory highlights her versatility and dedication towards advancing educational initiatives and fundraising efforts across various prestigious educational institutions. She continues to be a key driver of success in fundraising and resource development, making a positive impact on the organizations she serves.
