WID-NJ Events
About this Roundtable
Asking for major, leadership and transformational gifts can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be very rewarding and positively impact your organization's mission for years to come. In this webinar, we'll discuss strategies for effective and persuasive communication, providing you with the tools to clearly articulate your needs, confidently make the ask, and skillfully secure the support you seek.
About the Speaker
Greer Vaughan Vice President, Client Partnerships
Greer has vast experience in all aspects of planning, leading, and advising comprehensive fundraising campaigns. She has developed expertise in every stage of philanthropy, from developing organizational structure all the way up to successfully completing multimillion dollar campaigns, particularly in the arts and culture sectors. In addition, Greer specializes in helping organizations implement custom planned giving programs and campaigns.
Before joining TAG, Greer served as a senior consultant with another leading national firm advising campaigns and helping diverse clients achieve fundraising success, including zoos, gardens, hospitals, children’s organizations, independent schools and universities. Due to her accomplishments, Greer earned the firm’s Consultant of the Year Award for her fundraising success and high client approval ratings.
Greer began her career in philanthropy at her alma mater, Porter-Gaud School, as director of alumni and public relations. She went on to serve successfully the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry – as its founding Director of Development from 1998 – 2001 and the Coastal Community Foundation, where she honed her planned giving skills as Donor Services Director. Her experience as a staff member of these organizations gives her insight to the needs and challenges that charitable organizations face daily.
Greer received her undergraduate degree from The University of Pennsylvania. She is past president of the Lowcountry Chapter of the Association of Fundraising professionals and served on the board of the South Carolina Planned Giving Council for 7 years. She also served on the Executive Committee and Finance Committee of the Porter-Gaud Alumni Board and as Board President. Currently she serves on the school’s Foundation Board. Additionally, Greer has served three times on the Junior League of Charleston’s Board of Directors. Greer has also been a speaker and panelist at national conferences on fundraising topics such as capital campaigns and planned giving.
Registration Information
To view a full list of our upcoming events, visit www.widnewjersey.org/events and save your spots today!
Join the Women in Development New Jersey community for a crucial, open conversation on wellness in the nonprofit workplace. This interactive roundtable, led by NAMI Mercer volunteers Karen Marquis, PhD, and Carol Kivler, MS, CSP, will focus on some of the common challenges faced by nonprofit professionals:
This is a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues who understand the demands of our field. Share your experiences, exchange ideas, and uplift each other in a supportive environment. Come ready to listen, share, and leave with practical insights and encouragement.
Please note: Unlike our other virtual events, this session will not be recorded. We aim to create a safe space where you can fully engage in the discussion.
Don’t miss this chance to support one another and explore actionable ways to enhance wellness in your work life!
About the Speakers
Dr. Karen Marquis Board Member NAMI Mercer
Dr. Marquis is retired from Pfizer as Director of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Discovery Group, is currently a member of the NAMI Mercer Board, and has volunteered for eight years on NAMI Mercer's Helpline.
Ms. Carol Kivler Owner Kivler Communications
Ms. Kivler is the owner of Kivler Communications and is a speaker, international executive coach, motivator, training consultant, and author.
Public relations is a powerful tool for nonprofits — helping organizations extend their reach, raise awareness, and build credibility. But navigating the complexities of the media landscape can feel daunting, especially for nonprofits with limited resources. In this interactive roundtable, we'll dive into practical PR techniques tailored for nonprofit organizations.
Join PR strategist Bridget Kagan Jennison as she shares insights on:
Join this interactive discussion to discover the essential steps to elevate your nonprofit’s visibility and impact. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your PR skills and take your organization’s communication strategy to the next level!
Bridget Kagan Jennison Founder, Bridget Kagan Jennison Marketing and Communications
Bridget Kagan Jennison is a senior-level communications strategist with more than 15 years of experience in marketing and communications. Her work spans the cultural, financial, healthcare, nonprofit, technology, education sectors.
Jennison began her career working on marketing programs for the downtown business and tourism district in Highland Park, Illinois. She then joined Chicago-based PR firm, Public Communications Inc. (PCI), where she spent seven years leading integrated communications campaigns for clients including the AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation, Athletico Physical Therapy, Shedd Aquarium, Walgreens, and Chicago’s Newberry Library.
After transitioning from agency work to in-house roles, Jennison spent two years as head of marketing at a private high school in Rockford, Illinois. She then assumed the role of director of marketing at Rockford University where she helped strengthen the institution’s brand, support the school’s enrollment and advancement efforts, and oversaw the university’s year-long 175th anniversary celebration.
In 2022, Jennison launched an independent strategic communications practice to help clients achieve their goals through impactful messaging that resonates authentically with their audiences.
Jennison graduated from Marquette University with a degree in journalism. She lives in the greater Chicago area with her husband, two sons, one anxious Scottish Terrier, and one hyper Goldendoodle.
To view a list of our upcoming events, visit www.widnewjersey.org/events and save your spots today!
Tens of millions of dollars are left "on the table" each year from women donors as traditional nonprofit fundraising practices do not engage women effectively. Join philanthropy thought leader Yolanda F. Johnson as she explores Women’s Philanthropy through the lens of Inclusive Philanthropy. This session will equip you with the tools to think differently, stop making assumptions, and embrace the incredible value of engaging women donors through more inclusive practices, and begin leveraging DEI strategies to drive fundraising success related to women donors.
Yolanda F. Johnson Founder, Women of Color (WOC) President, YFJ Consulting
With a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector, Yolanda F. Johnson, a leader in fundraising, philanthropy and Inclusive Philanthropy, has developed training methods for boards and leadership groups in effective fundraising strategy and in racial and gender equity, in addition to successfully launching fundraising and marketing initiatives; creating special streams of earned income and special events, including creative strategies for partnerships and sponsorships; securing foundation, corporation and government funding, and cultivating a diverse major gifts portfolio. Her philanthropic work includes counseling philanthropists on where to direct their resources, and through her own YFJ Philanthropies, she personally gives back to causes supporting racial and gender equity, those with disabilities and the arts. A trailblazing figure on the nonprofit landscape, from 2019 - 2022, Yolanda is the founder of Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy (WOC) and the founder of Allies in Action Membership Network, specializing in transformational anti-racism training and programming for the nonprofit sector. Yolanda is a sought-after keynote speaker, panelist, and moderator for various presenting organizations nationwide and internationally on topics related to DEI, Women’s Philanthropy, Fundraising and Public Speaking. She spearheaded WID’s first Diversity and Inclusion Task Force—a two-year endeavor—which culminated in a final report and accompanying article in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, where she served on a DEI Advisory Committee. She also served on a special DEI committee for the fundraising sector, established by Salesforce. Yolanda also conducts Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from the Inside Out, a special workshop on Inclusive Philanthropy for nonprofit organizations. Her work has been featured in the recent publication, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Advancement: A Guide to Strengthening Engagement and Fundraising Through Inclusion, published through CASE. She serves on the Marketing Committee of Advisors in Philanthropy.
Her other leadership roles include serving on the Board of Directors of the Hudson River Museum, Lehman College Art Gallery and PowHer NY. She is also a Special Advisor to the American Composer’s Orchestra and the former United Nations NGO Rep and current International Advisory Board Member for the Foundation for Post Conflict Development.
Yolanda’s career as a successful performing artist and public speaker (www.yolandafjohnson.com) has given her a unique, creative perspective on the communications and presentation aspects of organizational development. With this in mind, she developed All the World's A Stage, a special workshop using performance practice for fundraising, philanthropy, and Inclusive Philanthropy. She presents All the World’s A Stage to professionals and leadership groups across the country. Yolanda was awarded the 2021 Changemaker Award from the Institute of Nonprofit Practice and is a founding member of the Women’s Philanthropy Alliance, a core group of industry experts and thought leaders on Women's Philanthropy. Yolanda was recently appointed to the Women’s Philanthropy Institute National Council as well as the Leadership Network for the Amplify Her Charitable Foundation.
About this In-person Event
Join us for an inspiring evening as we come together to celebrate and honor the remarkable women leading the charge in development across New Jersey.
Listen and learn from our distinguished panelists and partake in an empowering conversation centered on women development leaders.
This event will also provide a valuable networking opportunity for women working in the nonprofit sector. Let's celebrate the power, passion, and dedication of these incredible women who are making a difference in our communities.
Event Details
Date: Thu, Feb 27, 2025 Time: 6PM - 9PM Setting: In-person
Location: La Piazza Ristorante 11 Church Street, Allentown, NJ 08501
Light fare buffet & non-alcoholic beverages will be served; cash bar available. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in your registration.
Feel free to reach out to us with any thoughts or questions at info@widnewjersey.org.
We look forward to seeing you in person for food, networking, and fun!
Mary Heagley Executive Director and Vice President for Advancement Thomas Edison State University Foundation
Mary Heagley, Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director of Thomas Edison State University’s Foundation, brings nearly 40 years of development and non-profit experience to her role. She has served in leadership roles at the Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton University, NYU Medical Center and the University of Chicago among other organizations. Heagley has worked in alumni relations, donor relations, planned giving, major and principle giving, special events, and volunteer board management. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida and a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Florida.
In her role as a Vice President of Development with RWJBarnabas Health, Mundell is responsible for oversight of the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Foundation’s assets and fundraising strategy to support Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. She also sits on multiple strategic leadership teams for the healthcare system for pediatrics, oncology, and neurology. Mundell has more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, public relations, and community relations, including more than 11 years in multiple roles at RWJBarnabas Health and its affiliated medical centers, including Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Clara Maass Medical Center. Mundell has also held roles with Caldwell University and Montclair State University.
Mundell received a bachelor’s degree in English from The Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in English from Montclair State University. She currently resides in Bloomfield with her husband and son.
Lavinia Awosanya, MBA, CFRE Chief Development Officer Foodbank of South Jersey
In her role as Chief Development Officer, Lavinia Awosanya advances the Food Bank of South Jersey’s mission by leading fundraising, marketing and partnership cultivation strategies for the region’s largest hunger-relief organization. She also oversees and directs all aspects of donor relations, implementing key strategies for scaling fundraising operations and maximizing results. As a part of the executive team, Lavinia helps shape the strategic direction of the organization with the core mission of feeding residents remaining central to all decisions.
Awosanya joined the Food Bank of South Jersey in 2014, and most recently served as Director of Strategic Partnerships where she headed up corporate partnerships working with national brands and multinational corporations on key philanthropic initiatives. Awosanya is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and holds an MBA with Rutgers University; she also graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Business Administration from DeVry University. Her earlier experience includes working in London and New York City for one of the world’s leading beauty and skincare brands as part of the sales and management team.
In 2020, Lavinia received the Outstanding Fundraising Professional award by AFP New Jersey – Southern Chapter and was also named one of Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2020 Women of Distinction. She’s a Rotarian and is currently the President-Elect of the Maple Shade Rotary Club. She’s co-chair of the Feeding America Network Fundraising Advisory Council, and currently serves on the board of AFP New Jersey – Southern Chapter as the Vice President of Education and Ethics. Lavinia has also been a guest instructor for the AFP Fundamentals of Fundraising Course.
Jodi Hope Grinwald Visionary Nonprofit Leader ... Chief Executive Officer of Monmouth-Ocean Development Council ... Founder, Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation Foodbank of South Jersey
Jodi Grinwald is a transformational leader and award-winning advocate for change with over 20 years of dedication to the nonprofit and business sectors. As CEO of MODC, she drives powerful initiatives that fuel business growth, professional development, and community impact across the region. Her vision and influence extend nationally as the co-founder of Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation, the only organization in New Jersey that provides long-term performing arts education to children facing financial hardship, funding lessons for up to 15 years to unlock potential, confidence, and resilience through the arts.
Her commitment to empowering individuals and communities has earned Jodi multiple awards, including the Athena Leadership Award, NJBIA Nonprofit Leadership Award, and the New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education. She is also a certified professional coach who empowers clients and corporate teams to cultivate deeper connections to their mission, each other, and personal values. Her training and presentations for entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies has fueled growth, fostered communication, and helped these organizations surpass their goals.
Through her global platform, Today is the Day Changemakers, an international podcast downloaded in over 833 cities, Jodi brings together changemakers and thought leaders who are reshaping the future. This mission led her to launch the Today is the Day Changemakers International Forum, a cross-border event connecting leaders from multiple countries to inspire meaningful change. Her soon-to-be-published book, Inspiration from Everyday Changemakers, amplifies powerful stories of resilience and innovation worldwide.
Driven by a passion for connection and transformation, Jodi’s work continues to open doors, foster empowerment, and build pathways for brighter futures across industries and communities.
For more information visit www.applaudourkids.org and www.todayisthedayliveit.com and www.modc.com.
While women hold most professional staff roles in advancement, their voices are largely absent from discussions of talent management practices and individual career journeys of individuals within the field. This presentation will describe the findings of a research study that highlights the relationship between gender and advancement work, the factors influencing job-related decisions, and challenges to gender equality in the field. In this interactive session, we will also discuss actionable strategies for creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment for women in the field.
Dr. Lauren Villanueva Vice President of Alumni Engagement & Annual Giving, Syracuse University
As Vice President of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving at Syracuse University, Dr. Lauren Villanueva directs a comprehensive programming, volunteer, annual giving, and communications strategy designed to deepen meaningful engagement among Syracuse University’s 300,000+ alumni worldwide. She collaborates with the Syracuse University Alumni Association Board of Directors, campus stakeholders, and volunteer leaders to support philanthropic and engagement priorities associated with the Forever Orange campaign.
Prior to joining the Syracuse team in July 2022, Lauren was Vice President of Alumni Engagement and Executive Director of the Alumni Board of Governors at Drexel University in Philadelphia. In this role, she developed the strategy to guide prorams, volunteer engagement and data management in the contact of the university’s $750 million campaign, The Future is a Place We Make.
Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications, a Master of Science in higher education administration and organizational management, and an Ed.D. in educational leadership and management from Drexel University. Her research interests center on talent management and gender in higher education Institutional Advancement. She has also served as an adjunct instructor for Drexel’s School of Education and College of Arts and Sciences and has presented on numerous topics for CASE and Academic Impressions.
For so long we talked about how ‘change is hard’. More recently, we have expanded our thinking to understand that most of what we think of as ‘change’ is actually ‘transition’.We talk about transition A LOT in 2025, but what do we actually mean by that? William Bridges, an early pioneer of organizational development, created an incredibly simple but profoundly powerful framework to give us both a structure and language to talk about the psychological process of adapting to change. LJN will share the model and then facilitate opportunities to individually and collectively reflect on how this model resonates and plays out in our personal, interpersonal, and professional lives, as well of course, in our organizations.
Lorna Jane Norris Founder, LJN Advisory
Lorna Jane is a British born singer, teaching artist, coach, and consultant. After 20 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit arts education sector in MA and NYC, she launched LJN Advisory in 2020, a consulting firm that partners with individuals and non-profit organizations to manage and embrace transition. Working at the intersection of coaching and consulting, her work includes individual and group coaching, meeting facilitation, strategic and leadership transition planning, and leadership search. Personal and professional experience has grounded her in the belief that the often uncomfortable space between ‘what is’ and ‘what could be’ is fertile ground for creativity, learning, and growth. A process based practitioner, Lorna Jane’s work is rooted in Gestalt principles, William Bridges’ Transitions model, and the RUMI quote, “Be like a tree: stay grounded, keep growing, and know when to let go”. LJN attended the Gestalt International Study Center for her coaching training, and is working towards the next level of coaching accreditation (Professional Coaching Credential - PCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) in 2025. Lorna Jane lives with her partner in central Vermont. She endeavors to live and work with the values of curiosity, transparency, loyalty, compassion, and humor.
Sign-Up for emails
info@widnewjersey.org | 3495 US 1, Suite #34, #1247, Princeton, NJ 08540
Board of Directors | Membership | Events | Job Board | Member Portal