Suzanne Irwin-Wells

I have worked with nonprofits for over 34 years as a paid professional although my fundraising career began seven years before that when I served as the Teen Chairman of a campaign in my hometown of Quincy Illinois, USA.

For many years, my work has focused on planning studies, capital campaigns, major gifts, development audits and planning. I have founded nonprofits and understand the challenges of organizations in transition. In addition, I have served not only as Director of Development for fledgling organizations but also for major institutions. My clients are equally diverse and have annual budgets between $5,000 and $100,000,000. I work mainly in California but also have ties to the UK which I visit regularly.

I believe one of my greatest talents is instilling confidence in both volunteers and staff. In my trainings, I deal directly with such blocks as fear, giving many examples from my own experience. I use humor and support to unleash creative methods for success. Although not many people consider themselves natural-born fundraisers, almost everyone in my trainings gains newfound enthusiasm and confidence.

I enjoy teaching major gifts and capital campaign fundraising at Golden Gate University and lecturing at such places as the University of San Francisco’s Institute for Nonprofit Organization Management, AFP, Development Executives Roundtable, and various conferences and meetings.

I have served on numerous boards including The Women’s Foundation, Marin Rape Crisis Center, Association of Fundraising Professionals/ Golden Gate Chapter and the Women’s Philharmonic. I am currently a member of Northwestern University’s Alumni Committee for the University’s $1 Billion campaign. I am a member of Association of Philanthropic Counsel. I am an active member and a trustee of Grace Cathedral.

I received an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Organization Management from the University of San Francisco (1993), an MBA in arts administration from Golden Gate University (1983), a BS in magazine journalism from Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism (1969), a certificate in music theory and composition from Chicago’s Sherwood School of Music (1964) and a junior certificate in piano from the Quincy (Illinois) Conservatory of Music (1963). My special interests include the piano and trying to understand quantum physics and other weird things.

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