13. Mentorship and Mission: John Donohue’s 40 Years of Guiding Nonprofit Excellence

Non-Profit North Stars with Jim Eskin

In this inspiring 13th episode of Non-Profit North Stars with Jim Eskin, we honor the incredible journey of John Donohue, Vice President for College Advancement at The College of New Jersey. With a career spanning over four decades, John has mentored countless professionals and transformed the fundraising and advancement landscape. From adapting to diverse regional nonprofit cultures to fostering authentic donor relationships, John shares the wisdom and strategies behind his extraordinary impact. Nominated by Brett Davidson, John’s legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service exemplifies what it means to be a true North Star.

Key Takeaways:

1. Mentorship Matters: Learn how mentorship shapes nonprofit leadership and how to seek out the right mentor for your career.
2. Authenticity in Fundraising: Discover why building authentic connections is more impactful than mastering technical skills.
3. Adapting to Change: Gain insights into embracing change in nonprofit cultures and regions to achieve greater success.
4. Overcoming Solicitation Fears: Shift your mindset from “selling” to “sharing” to approach donors with genuine passion and purpose.
5. Retention Strategies: Explore how flexibility, respect, and competitive compensation keep high-performing staff motivated.
6. Supporting Regional Institutions: Understand how local colleges and nonprofits play a critical role in creating opportunities for underserved communities.

Join us as we celebrate the leadership, wisdom, and generosity of John Donohue, a beacon of inspiration in the nonprofit sector.