Q: How did you find your way into the world of fundraising? Was it the plan, or did you stumble into it along the way?

I’ve been in fundraising for a little over two years and found my way into the profession
through Cramer & Associates. I quickly discovered that fundraising is really about building relationships and helping organizations create lasting impact. I love combining strategy, project management, and relationship-building to help clients accomplish goals that once felt out of reach.

Q: Tell us a little about the organization you work with—its mission, who it serves, and what excites you most about the work.

Cramer & Associates is a fundraising consulting firm that partners with nonprofits to help them
achieve transformational fundraising success. We specialize in feasibility studies, capital campaigns, strategic planning, campaign management, board development, development planning, and a wide range of other fundraising and organizational consulting services. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to work alongside so many different organizations, each with a unique mission but a shared passion for making a meaningful impact in their communities. No two projects are ever the same, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help nonprofits turn ambitious visions into reality.

Q: What is one thing your organization does really well?

We truly become an extension of our clients’ teams. We take the time to understand each
organization’s culture, mission, and community so our recommendations are thoughtful, practical, and tailored specifically to their goals.

Q: How long have you been part of AFP, and what do you value most about your membership?

I joined AFP about two years ago. I recently completed the AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising
course, which provided an excellent foundation in fundraising strategy, ethics, donor stewardship, relationship building, and development planning. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn from experienced fundraising professionals while connecting with others across Central Ohio. I’m excited to continue growing my involvement with AFP and supporting our local fundraising community.

Without question, the people. AFP brings together professionals who genuinely want to help
one another succeed. Whether through educational programming, networking events, or simply having a community to bounce ideas off of, I’ve found the relationships and willingness to share knowledge to be incredibly valuable.

Q: What has been your biggest success in your career?

One of my biggest accomplishments has been helping manage multiple large-scale fundraising
campaigns simultaneously while building strong relationships with clients across a wide variety of nonprofit sectors. Seeing organizations reach transformational fundraising milestones, and knowing I played a part in helping them get there, is incredibly rewarding.

Q: What has been your biggest learning opportunity in your career?

Learning that fundraising is about listening more than talking has probably been my greatest lesson. Every donor, volunteer, and organization has a unique story, and taking the time to truly understand their motivations leads to stronger relationships and ultimately better outcomes.

Q: Do you have a favorite book, blog, podcast, or resource that has been helpful in your career that you’d recommend?

One of my favorite books is Atomic Habits by James Clear. While it’s not specifically about
fundraising, the lessons on building consistent habits, improving by small margins each day, and
creating systems instead of relying on motivation have been incredibly valuable in both my
professional and personal life.

Q: What do you enjoy most about living or working in Central Ohio? Any favorite spots?

I love how collaborative and supportive the nonprofit community is in Columbus. It’s a big city
with a small-town feel, and people genuinely want to see each other succeed. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time walking around Bridge Park / Old Dublin.

Q: Outside of work, what’s something you enjoy doing in your free time?

Outside of work, I keep a small flock of backyard chickens. It started as a fun hobby, and I’ve
learned they’re full of personality. Caring for them has become one of my favorite ways to unwind
after a busy day.

Q: If someone handed you a ticket for your dream vacation tomorrow, where would you go?

I’d love to visit Switzerland. The scenery looks absolutely incredible, and I would love to spend time hiking through the Alps and exploring the small mountain villages.