Area of Focus
As the director of development, Abby’s main focus is leading the in raising funds for WRA’s strategic goals and initiatives to fight climate change.. In working with an incredible team of development professionals focused on annual giving, major gifts, and foundations, she hopes to help grow donor relationships in a meaningful and lasting way.
Background
Abby first learned about WRA when she moved to Colorado in 2022. With 17 years of development experience, she was drawn to the organization because of her love of the outdoors. Born in Missouri, she grew up in canoes on the beautiful rivers of the Ozarks, on horseback trailing the lands, and camping and hiking in nature. She is an outdoor enthusiast and has dreams that her two children will be able to enjoy the beauty of the West throughout their lives.
Prior to joining WRA, Abby spent ten years fundraising for cancer care and research, first at the American Cancer Society, and then at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. At Sloan Kettering, she created and implemented a first of its kind grateful patient program, connecting patients and their families with giving opportunities supporting their doctors, surgeons, and researchers. The program increased giving from patients by a remarkable 400% during her tenure.
She then moved into higher education advancement at Fordham Law School where she spent seven years raising major gifts. Her focus was on funding scholarships for students who may not have otherwise been able to further their education. Abby played a leadership role in a campaign that raised $100 million towards scholarships and scholar’s educational experiences, a record amount for the law school.
Education
- Bachelor of Health Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia
Favorite thing about the West
The perfect weather, but more than anything the friendly people. I am so happy my kids will have the opportunity to grow up with the abundance of beauty the West provides.
