April Member SPOTLIGHT |
Meet Hilarie H. Robison Executive Director Hilarie Hicks Robison loves helping people and organizations observe and reflect on the lessons life teaches, then pivot to embrace opportunities with intense intentionality. (Following her own advice brought this Las Vegas native to TN!) A dynamic nonprofit executive and powerhouse fundraiser, Hilarie's calling extends to the stage and the page as an inspirational speaker and writer. |
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What led you to join NAEF?
"My desire to share resources and learning experiences is what led me to join NAEF."
What do you find most rewarding about being part of NAEF’s community?
"The content offered at conferences is high quality."
Describe a recent accomplishment or experience from your work that
stands out to you.
"We reached a milestone goal with our endowment, resulting in beginning an annual draw that funds all operating costs… meaning 0% overhead and 100% impact! Every dime donated to our organization directly impacts students!"
Could you share a challenge you’ve faced in your work and the way you navigated through it?
"When joining the organization 7.5 years ago and realizing that grant commitments outpaced donations, I worked with the Board to develop a plan to “right the ship” by raising grant funds in advance of committing them, including:
- Transparency to donors, grantees and community about the status of the organization
- Creating a vision for short-term solutions to maintain funded needs, and long-term sustainability and growth of the organization
- Goals strategically set and clearly communicated to bring the vision to life
- Leveraging key donor relationships to help develop, and support the vision and campaign
- Rallying the community for financial support around the articulated vision, after seeding the campaign with larger private investments"
What motivates you, in life and at work?
"My faith and family motivate me to serve others, especially in ways that strengthen families and help them thrive."
If someone was considering a career in the education foundation
industry, what piece of advice would you give them?
"Everything is about relationships! Focus on building meaningful relationships with donors and other stakeholders, and that will bring you both success and fulfillment! And… if you’re new to this industry, learning from seasoned leaders and connecting to the resources available through NAEF will be key to your growth."