Tanya Ramseth
Koloa / San Francisco
Summary
Major Gifts & Development Leader | Advocate for Animals & People
Dedicated fundraising professional with 10+ years of nonprofit leadership experience and a proven track record in major gifts cultivation, donor engagement, grant acquisition, and communications strategy. Passionate about animal welfare and building meaningful relationships that fuel mission-driven impact. Seeking to bring my expertise to Muttville’s compassionate and innovative team.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Development
The Kauai Humane Society
Lihue, HI
12.2019 - Current
- Manage and steward a portfolio of major donors and prospects, cultivating relationships that led to nearly doubling annual contributed revenue to $1.4M+ in less than three years.
- Develop individualized cultivation plans and donor journeys, securing gifts of $10,000+ and building strong philanthropic partnerships.
- Lead donor engagement strategies including events, newsletters, impact reports, and personal outreach to deepen connections with the mission.
- Partner with senior leadership and program staff to translate programmatic needs into compelling cases for support.
- Regularly update and manage donor data using Blackbaud NXT to ensure accurate records and timely, personalized stewardship.
- Lead planning for fundraising events and campaigns, including developing donor lists, outreach strategies, and post-event stewardship.
- Secured transformative grants, including:
$223K from State of Hawai`i for public spay/neuter program
$115K for a Community Care Center
Currently shortlisted for $2M in federal funding for surgical suite renovation - Foster cross-departmental collaboration to ensure alignment, transparency, and impact reporting across donor communications.
Membership Manager
National Tropical Botanical Garden
Kalaheo, HI
03.2016 - 01.2020
- Maintained and analyzed membership data in Blackbaud CRM; developed new donor recognition benefits and communications.
- Initiated symbolic adoption programs (trees/benches), diversifying revenue and improving donor engagement.
- Led member communication strategy, including e-newsletters, appeals, and donor education.
- Partnered with all NTBG gardens to engage staff and volunteers, emphasizing importance of strong membership base for overall program success.
Operations Manager
Airborne Aviation
Lihue, HI
03.2015 - 02.2016
- Oversaw daily operations of a high-volume helicopter tour company, ensuring seamless coordination of flight schedules, customer service, and maintenance support.
- Managed reservations, guest communications, and on-site logistics to deliver exceptional visitor experiences, contributing to high customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Resolved customer concerns with empathy and professionalism, turning potential negative experiences into positive brand interactions.
- Implemented streamlined scheduling systems and workflow procedures that improved staff coordination and reduced downtime.
- Handled financial transactions, inventory, and reporting, ensuring accurate records and daily reconciliations.
SpEd Paraprofessional
Aptitude Habilitation Services
Koloa, HI
08.2011 - 03.2015
- Promoted inclusive learning environments using visual aids and individualized instructional strategies.
- Collaborated with educators to develop and implement behavior modification plans, enhancing student engagement and classroom success.
- Optimized staff scheduling for a 35-person team, improving classroom coverage and continuity of care.
- Analyzed behavioral data to refine educational tactics and better support students with diverse learning needs.
Outside Customer Service Representative
Qwest Communications
Seattle, WA
01.2003 - 10.2010
- Exceeded Qwest's sales goals while ensuring FCC compliance.
- Boosted service penetration by managing a vast 90-property portfolio.
- Trained property managers, fostering strong alliances and promoting service adoption.
Education
Modern Sheltering Foundations -
UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program
04.2025
Green Belt - The Six Sigma Management Program
Kaplan University
01.2010
Pursued Associates Degree - Arts and Sciences
Tacoma Community College
01.1994
High School Diploma - undefined
Henry Foss High School
Tacoma, WA01.1992
Skills
- CRM Systems: Blackbaud NXT, Salsa CRM, Mailchimp
- Fundraising: Major Gifts, Donor Stewardship, Grant Writing, Campaign Planning
- Events: Gala Planning, Community Engagement, Donor Cultivation Events
- Communications: Strategic Storytelling, Impact Reporting, Digital Marketing
- Soft Skills: Compassionate Communicator, Team-Oriented, Adaptable, Goal-Driven
Hobbies and Interests
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Knitting
- Crocheting
- Hosting Trivia
- Playing Trivia
- Cooking
- Fostering special needs animals
Timeline
Director of Development
The Kauai Humane Society
12.2019 - Current
Membership Manager
National Tropical Botanical Garden
03.2016 - 01.2020
Operations Manager
Airborne Aviation
03.2015 - 02.2016
SpEd Paraprofessional
Aptitude Habilitation Services
08.2011 - 03.2015
Outside Customer Service Representative
Qwest Communications
01.2003 - 10.2010
High School Diploma - undefined
Henry Foss High School
Modern Sheltering Foundations -
UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program
Green Belt - The Six Sigma Management Program
Kaplan University
Pursued Associates Degree - Arts and Sciences
Tacoma Community College