Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Mike Desmond

La Crosse,Wisconsin

Summary

Strong communicator with excellent organizational and time management skills. Possesses excellent problem-solving skills and ability to think and act quickly to find creative solutions.

Overview

45
45
years of professional experience

Work History

Resource Development Assistant

Aquinas Catholic Schools
01.2022 - Current
  • Assisted Director of Development focusing on major gifts.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment with strong interpersonal skills and proactive teamwork attitude.
  • Implemented fundraising and stewardship strategies.
  • Strengthened client relationships through consistent follow-up communication and efficient problem resolution.
  • Part of a Development Team raising $10 million for a Teacher/Staff Endowment
  • Assisted in hosting several alumni events.

Executive Director

Boys & Girls Clubs Of Greater La Crosse
02.2009 - 06.2019


  • Worked closely with the Board of Directors to develop operational strategies.
  • Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
  • Guided staff through periods of organizational change.
  • Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Fostered work culture of collaboration and inclusion to increase morale and reduce turnover.
  • Built relationships with donors, government officials and other organizations to secure funding and support for organization.
  • Represented organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
  • Collaborated with non-profits, businesses and government agencies to develop strategic partnerships
  • Drove strategic improvements.
  • Led successful fundraising campaigns, securing critical resources for program development and expansion.
  • Advocated for organization and mission to raise awareness and support.
  • Strengthened internal communication and collaboration
  • Set organizational goals and objectives to guide and direct focus and achieve mission fulfillment.
  • Highlights: Developed successful and innovative programming including a Mental Health Program, a Jobs Program and a comprehensive Meal Program.
  • Successfully raised $7 million for the remodeling and addition to the Terry Erickson Club
  • Successfully raised $3.5 million to develop a Club in West Salem through a partnership with the West Salem School District
  • Began the process of developing a Club in Holmen through partnerships with the Holmen School District and the community.

Development Officer

UW-L Foundation
06.2004 - 02.2009
  • Collaborated with other officers to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals and objectives.
  • Modified internal processes for improved efficiency in donor management and event planning.
  • Lead a successful $17 million fundraising campaign for a new stadium at UW-L.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with major donors, leading to enhanced collaboration and sustained contributions.

Teacher/Coach/Director of Development/Interim Pres

Aquinas Catholic Schools
08.1979 - 08.2004
  • Social Studies Teacher (Psychology/Sociology/US History)
  • Developed Psychology & Sociology Courses
  • Girls Basketball Coach (1979-1989)
  • Boys Basketball Coach (1989-2004)
  • Total record 402-173
  • Assistant Football Coach (1979-2003)
  • Director of Development (1996-2004)
  • Assisted in Fundraising for Cardinal Burke Hall

· Interim President Aquinas Catholic Schools (2004)

  • Asked to serve as Interim President during a transition time.

Education

Master of Science - Secondary Education Professional Development

UW-L
La Crosse, WI
01.1986

Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education

UW-L
La Crosse, WI
12.1976

High School Diploma -

Aquinas High School
La Crosse, WI
05.1971

Skills

  • Verbal and written communication
  • Relationship Building
  • Develop strong teams

Accomplishments

  • Wisconsin Basketball Association Hall of Fame
  • Aquinas High School Athletic Wall of Fame
  • Tribune Person of the Year
  • Outstanding Professional Fundraiser Award
  • Pius XXIII Award (Viterbo)
  • Rotary Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Boys & Girls Club Wall of Fame


Timeline

Resource Development Assistant

Aquinas Catholic Schools
01.2022 - Current

Executive Director

Boys & Girls Clubs Of Greater La Crosse
02.2009 - 06.2019

Development Officer

UW-L Foundation
06.2004 - 02.2009

Teacher/Coach/Director of Development/Interim Pres

Aquinas Catholic Schools
08.1979 - 08.2004

Master of Science - Secondary Education Professional Development

UW-L

Bachelor of Arts - Secondary Education

UW-L

High School Diploma -

Aquinas High School
Mike Desmond