Karen, Director of Development at Lighthouse Community Public Schools: Advize Career Interview

Lighthouse Community Public Schools' Director of Development, a career professional with a significant fundraising portfolio, manages a multi-million dollar budget, encompassing grant writing, donor relations, event planning, and digital communications.

The role demands strong writing, communication, and organizational skills, but above all, a deep commitment to educational equity.

A typical day is dynamic, balancing independent work with collaborative efforts, engaging high-net-worth donors and the school community. The most rewarding aspect is making a difference and working with a driven team.

While time constraints pose a challenge, the collaborative nature of the development industry, coupled with a willingness to embrace new strategies, defines success.

The Director encourages students to consider this rewarding career path, highlighting the importance of relationship-building, not just networking, and the unexpected opportunities that arise from developing genuine connections.

Entry-level positions are available, valuing mission alignment and basic skills, with on-the-job training provided. A key lesson learned is the power of authentic relationship building.

Finally, the Director reflects on leveraging their position to challenge traditional narratives in nonprofit work, showcasing the potential of students rather than focusing on deficits.