For 25 years as a philanthropy executive at some of the top ranked universities in the country, she has accumulated the skills, expertise, and judgment that has enabled her to inspire and lead teams to fundraising success. And, now as a consultant and teacher, she is eager to provide advancement professionals with the tools they need to learn and grow.

Theresa has worked in a variety of advancement roles including major gift fundraising, management of annual and major gift fundraising teams, alumni and parent relations, human resource and budget management. As an expert in annual giving and special project fundraising, she believes passionately in an integrated marketing strategy and the impact of great stewardship.

She has served as a senior executive in advancement during comprehensive campaigns at MIT, Boston College, Holy Cross, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and UMass Lowell after an early career in Student Affairs at Northeastern University. She is a leader in CASE District I, co-chairing the educational program for the annual conference for two years and then co-chairing the development track. As an instructor for Boston University's professional fundraising course and a frequent speaker for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), and Women in Development (WID), she has shared knowledge and practical solutions with fundraising professionals from across the world in all types of non-profits.

From an early age, Theresa loved to read biographies and autobiographies, fascinated by not only what these extraordinary people did, but how they did it – the details mattered. Her curiosity about people and how they grow and develop led to a degree in psychology from the University of Maine – a degree which has served her well in the field of philanthropy.

Student leadership roles helped develop her skills and interest in leadership and project management. With a master's degree in college student personnel from Bowling Green State University, she was energized to put her theoretical and practical training to work. Her career began in student affairs working with students to develop their leadership and life skills.

She is grateful to her first mentor in development, Diana Strange, who provided wisdom and inspiration that continues to guide Theresa’s career and validate her commitment to the mission of philanthropic excellence. Now, as an independent consultant, Theresa is providing best practices and innovative solutions to philanthropy professionals eager to strengthen their programs and reach their full potential.