Heidi Gleason

Results-driven fundraising professional with deep experience across the nonprofit sector, including higher education (theological education and liberal arts) and animal welfare. Proven ability to expand donor relationships, increase fundraising revenue, and deepen donor engagement for long-term impact across a variety of mission-driven organizations. Recognized for strategic donor cultivation, major gift solicitation, and aligning donor passions with institutional priorities—skills that apply broadly across philanthropic and nonprofit sectors. Strong ability to reengage lapsed and disengaged alumni and constituents, fostering meaningful connections that lead to renewed giving and long-term donor commitment. In FY25, secured $502,000 in major gifts—marking a 144% increase over FY24’s fundraising efforts, while deepening prospect relationships, increasing donor engagement, and driving continued success in year two.

• Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, 05/01/19
• Mastering the Major Gift, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, 05/01/23
• Planned Giving: Getting the Proper Start, Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, 05/01/24

• Board Member & Development Committee Co-Chair, PAWS Atlanta, Corrected Dates
• Ruling Elder, Presbyterian Church (USA), 01/01/17 - Present
• Grants Committee Member, Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, 01/01/20 - Present
• Staff Member, Hallowell ADHD Camp, Leelanau, MI, 01/01/21 - Present, Support camp operations, assisting with family recruitment and vetting, onsite logistics, and delivering an engaging educational experience for children and young adults with ADHD.

• During her six years at Columbia, Heidi put her heart, head, and hands into advancing its mission. She built strong relationships with stakeholders—even through a global pandemic—engaged students in Advancement, launched successful Partner in Ministry events, developed endowment stewardship reports, and elevated the donor experience through strategic fundraising appeals.
• I am very pleased with Heidi's decision-making and problem-solving skills, particularly in fundraising, where she effectively leverages opportunities to encourage donors to make major gifts.
• Everyone on the team shares my positive impression of Heidi’s dedication.
• Heidi is a natural at this.
• So proud to have Heidi as part of the major gift team. I very much appreciate her openness to learning from her supervisor, coworkers, and the industry through reading, classes, etc.