Kassi Bernard
Orlando,Florida
Summary
Mission-driven nonprofit, corporate, and public sector executive with more than 30 years of leadership experience in events, philanthropy, fundraising, grant administration, community development, and strategic partnerships. Proven success cultivating relationships with donors, corporate sponsors, government officials, foundation partners, and boards of directors to advance mission-focused initiatives.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Housing and Community Development Manager
City of Orlando
Orlando, USA
12.2018 - Current
- Manage multimillion-dollar federal, state, and local grant-funded programs; oversee compliance, strategic planning, and partnerships with nonprofit organizations, developers, and community stakeholders.
- Led a pandemic response initiative delivering $2.24 million in rental assistance to 550 households in under 60 days.
- Develop and implement community outreach programs to enhance resident engagement and participation.
- Collaborate with local stakeholders to identify and address community needs and priorities.
- Provide leadership, guidance and support to staff members.
Executive Director
Habitat for Humanity of Winter Park-Maitland
Winter Park-Maitland, USA
07.2008 - 07.2018
- Directed fundraising, donor cultivation, grant management, board relations, and community outreach.
- Built relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, faith communities, and government partners.
- Led the development of more than 50 affordable homes while coordinating 50-70 volunteers weekly.
- Fostered partnerships with local businesses and organizations to support fundraising efforts.
- Forged strong relationships with board members, providing regular updates on organizational progress and soliciting their expertise when needed.
Costuming and Learning & Development Manager
The Walt Disney Company
USA
01.1996 - 07.2008
- Developed leadership training programs, coached emerging leaders, and managed large operational teams in high-visibility service environments.
- Conducted thorough needs assessments for individual departments to tailor training solutions accordingly.
- Led cross-functional teams in planning and executing large-scale events, fostering collaboration and efficiency.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative event concepts that exceeded client expectations.
Education
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) - Learning And Organizational Change (in Progress)
Baylor University
Master of Liberal Studies -
Rollins College, Hamilton Holt School
2007
Bachelor of Science - Clothing and Textiles
Virginia Tech
1993
Skills
- Major Gifts and Donor Stewardship
- Fundraising Strategy
- Corporate Partnerships
- Grant Administration and Compliance
- Board Engagement
- Special Events
- Budget Oversight
- Public Speaking
- Team Leadership
- Partnership development
- Nonprofit management
- Housing needs assessment
Timeline
Housing and Community Development Manager
City of Orlando
12.2018 - Current
Executive Director
Habitat for Humanity of Winter Park-Maitland
07.2008 - 07.2018
Costuming and Learning & Development Manager
The Walt Disney Company
01.1996 - 07.2008
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) - Learning And Organizational Change (in Progress)
Baylor University
Master of Liberal Studies -
Rollins College, Hamilton Holt School
Bachelor of Science - Clothing and Textiles
Virginia Tech
Awards
- City of Winter Park Proclamation, Kassi Bernard Day, 6.18.2018
- Nominee, Disney Cast Excellence Award
- Mayor's Executive Leadership Class Candidate
- The Adult Chair ® Coaching Certification