Stefanie Stark Takes the Helm at America’s No. 1 Major Gifts Fundraising Company

Stefanie Stark was recently named president of the world renowned major gifts fundraising firm Development Systems International (DSI). Founder Jimmy LaRose celebrated by sharing, “Stefanie’s ascension has been unprecedented. She’s raised millions and makes charities’ dreams come true. Stefanie is DSI’s future!” 

She is a distinguished nonprofit management expert with nearly three decades of experience in the charitable sector. As President of Development Systems International (DSI), she champions the Major Gifts Ramp-Up (MGRU) Model and has spent the last fifteen years building financial capacity using MGRU.

MEET STEFANIE IN PERSON AT A MAJOR GIFTS RAMP-UP EVENT

DSI was established in 1990 and has spent the last 35 years leading major gifts fundraising campaigns across the U.S. and around the world. Stefanie will be overseeing the deployment of the Major Gifts Ramp-Up Model, a comprehensive fundraising system designed to help nonprofit organizations secure significant financial contributions from individual donors. It focuses on building deep, meaningful relationships with potential major donors by aligning their philanthropic goals with the mission and needs of the nonprofit. The model emphasizes a systematic approach to donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship, ensuring long-term donor engagement and organizational sustainability.

At its core, the MGRU model operates on a structured process of identifying, qualifying, and cultivating prospective major donors. This involves thorough prospect research to uncover individuals with both the capacity to give and a genuine interest in the nonprofit’s cause. The model encourages nonprofits to create personalized donor engagement plans, often involving direct, one-on-one interactions such as meetings, events, and tailored communication. By focusing on creating authentic connections, nonprofits can better inspire donors to make transformative financial contributions.

A unique aspect of the MGRU model is its emphasis on capacity-building within the nonprofit itself. It encourages organizations to strengthen internal systems, such as leadership development, staff training, and board involvement, to support the implementation of major gift strategies effectively. By integrating these elements, the MGRU model helps nonprofits not only achieve immediate fundraising success but also build a sustainable framework for securing major gifts over the long term. This results in organizations that are more resilient, better funded, and capable of advancing their missions at a higher level.

Stefanie Stark has raised millions using the Major Gifts Ramp-Up Model

Her journey into the nonprofit world began at the age of 12 when she was recruited into a performing arts college, exposing her to the funding challenges faced by arts organizations. A serious car accident ended her performing arts career, prompting her to focus on nonprofit management and fundraising.

Stefanie has held significant roles, including Executive Director of Children’s Health Defense, a national legal advocacy nonprofit, and Development & Marketing Officer in transitional housing for homeless women and children. She is a founding member of the National Association of Nonprofit Organizations & Executives (NANOE) and holds certifications as a Nonprofit Consultant, Development Executive, and Executive Coach.

MEET STEFANIE IN PERSON AT A MAJOR GIFTS RAMP-UP EVENT

Her educational background includes studies at the National Hungarian Ballet Academy and degrees from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and the University of Utah.

Throughout her career, Stefanie has consulted for renowned organizations such as the United Nations Foundation, the American Foundation for Children with AIDS, the Bridgespan Group, and the San Diego Museum of Art. She has coached nonprofit leaders through successful multi-million dollar campaigns using the Major Gifts Ramp-Up model, achieving significant growth and sustainability for their organizations.

Stefanie’s expertise encompasses nonprofit operations, strategic planning, budget planning, donor engagement, board administration, national advocacy, digital marketing, and chapter development. She is also involved in various boards, including serving as Secretary for Urbi et Orbi Communications and HorsePlay Therapy Center, and as President Emeritus for Once a Soldier.

Her dedication to connecting donors with inspiring missions has made her a sought-after consultant and speaker in the nonprofit sector. She continues to influence the field through her leadership at DSI and her commitment to advancing the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations.

She’s a mother of three and makes her home in St. Augustine, FL with her loving husband Greg.

Development Systems International
P.O. Box 1840
Lexington, SC 29702
800-257-6670
[email protected]

Stefanie Stark takes the helm at America’s No. 1 fundraising firm was first posted at INSIDE CHARITY

For more articles like Stefanie Stark takes the helm at America’s No. 1 fundraising firm VISIT HERE