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
La Crosse, WI
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
La Crosse, WI
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
La Crosse, WI
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
La Crosse, WI
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