Anthony Padgett

Dynamic and results-driven fundraising executive with 18+ years of non-profit expertise, specializing in major gift acquisition, donor-centric relationship management, grant writing, and board development. A strategic leader with a proven track record of securing transformational gifts, driving record-breaking campaigns, and cultivating high-impact donor partnerships. Adept at inspiring philanthropic investment through visionary fundraising strategies, compelling grant proposals, and engaging board leadership.

Passionate about leveraging philanthropy to fuel mission-driven initiatives and create lasting donor engagement

Regional Director of Advancement Jan 2023 - Present

Western Governors University, Salt Lake City, Utah

Managed all facets of fundraising, including grant writing, donor engagement, and strategic partnerships with government, private, and corporate philanthropies across a nine-state Midwest region.

• Secured $2.5 million in foundation funding, strengthening regional programs and initiatives.
• Established the Midwest Region’s first Distinguished Alumni Committee, enhancing donor engagement and alumni contributions.

LuMind IDSC Burlington, MA

Led comprehensive major gifts initiatives, driving fundraising success through strategic donor research and corporate philanthropy partnerships.

• Developed and launched a board-driven outreach program to cultivate mid-level donors and increase the pipeline of major gifts.

College of DuPage Glen Ellyn, IL

Orchestrate and control all aspects of major gifts and planned giving activities. Supervise the Development Coordinator.

• Successfully raised $240k in donations and received individual and foundation gifts by steering new COD Succeeds initiative.

Director of Major Gifts & Planned Giving Aug 2018 - May 2019

Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago, IL

Managed $5.3M budget while guiding 2 director reports during coordination of key gifts and planned giving activities.

• Surpassed fundraising goal by $300K, driving increased donor engagement and revenue.
• Designed, launched, and refined an innovative, long-term planned giving program, strengthening donor commitment and future giving.

Regions Hospital Foundation St. Paul, MN

Directed all fundraising efforts for Regions Hospital Neuroscience Department, driving major gifts, annual funds, special events, and physician philanthropy partnerships.

• Successfully led the fundraising program for the new Neuroscience Center, securing $85K in donations.
• Spearheaded initiatives that increased grateful patient visits by 70%, strengthening donor engagement and philanthropy impact.

Presence Health Foundation Chicago, IL

Directed comprehensive fundraising programs, driving annual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and special events for two hospitals..

• Secured $190K in donations to establish a new Cardio Rehabilitation Center, leading to a 300% increase in post-cardiac patient participation.
• Strategically cultivated major gift prospects through high-impact engagement events, resulting in over $105K in contributions.

University of Illinois at Chicago College of Business Chicago, IL

Provided strategic oversight for a portfolio of 60 Major Gift prospects, leading and mentoring the Associate Director of Development, Assistant Director of Development, and Associate Director of Alumni Relations to maximize donor engagement and philanthropic impact.

• Spearheaded high impact fundraising initiatives, securing a $75K grant for the Accounting Department, a $250K grant for the Finance Department, and over $150K in scholarship funding.
• Successfully closed $1.4M worth of donations.

University of Illinois at Chicago College of Business Chicago, IL

Sourced, assessed, and regularly engaged donors and grantors for prospective programs. Played key role in hiring and development of 68 members of the Business Advisory Council made up of corporate leaders and entrepreneurs.

• Yielded donations worth $3.5M and acquired $480k in major gifts.
• Entrusted with devising and implementing leadership, outreach, and business development strategies to streamline the revamping of board structures.

• Certified Fund-Raising Executive Credential (CFRE)
• Master of Science in Non-Profit Leadership