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Marianne Siess
Vice President of Advancement Services at Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association
Professional Background
Marianne Siess boasts an impressive career in advancement services within the nonprofit and higher education sectors. She currently serves as the Vice President of Advancement Services at the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association, where she plays a critical role in advancing philanthropic efforts not only for the foundation but for the wider alumni community as well. In this leadership position, Marianne leverages her extensive experience in development and research to enhance fundraising strategies and to build strong relationships between the foundation and its alumni.
Previously, Marianne excelled as the Senior Managing Director of Advancement Services at the same organization, where she further honed her expertise in development initiatives and collaborated closely with various stakeholders to optimize fundraising operations. Her contributions were pivotal in establishing effective methods for engaging with potential donors and effectively managing donor data, which are vital components of a successful advancement strategy.
Marianne’s career with the University of Wisconsin Foundation is particularly noteworthy. She served in several capacities, all centering around development research and information resources. As the Managing Senior Director of Development Information Resources, she oversaw the critical processes of data management and analysis that inform strategic decision-making in fundraising efforts. Her role as Managing Senior Director of Research further highlights her dedication to creating informed insights that support the university’s financial objectives, enhancing the opportunity for impactful engagements with alumni and supporters.
Her journey began as a Development Research Officer at Monmouth College, where she built her foundational skills in research and development. This position provided her with an early introduction to the methodologies essential for successful fundraising initiatives, nurturing her passion for the nonprofit sector. Marianne's career includes vital administrative roles, like that of the Research Secretary at St. Ambrose University, and an Administrative Assistant at Family Resources, Inc., illustrating her well-rounded capabilities in supporting various organizational functions.
Education and Achievements
Marianne Siess’s educational foundation is compelling and contributes significantly to her professional success. She earned her Master of Arts (MA) degree from the prestigious University of Wisconsin-Madison, a well-regarded institution known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to research excellence. This advanced education equipped her with analytical skills and a broad understanding of developmental theories and practice.
Prior to her master’s degree, Marianne completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) at Augustana College. Her undergraduate education provided her with a diverse intellectual framework, nurturing her critical thinking abilities, which have proven invaluable throughout her career.
Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Marianne has achieved numerous accomplishments that underscore her expertise and commitment to the field of advancement services. As a leader in her field, she has developed innovative advancements in donor engagement strategies and philanthropic initiatives. Her ability to analyze complex data and translate it into actionable insights has directly contributed to fundraising successes across the organizations she has served. Furthermore, her collaborative approach has fostered meaningful partnerships within the academic communities she works with, facilitating greater support for educational initiatives.
Throughout her various roles, Marianne has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a dedication to professional growth. Her commitment to education, philanthropy, and community building continues to inspire those around her and has set a precedent for others in the field of advancement services.
