Meet-A-FLiP - Lisa Nappi

Seven years ago, Lisa Nappi, CFRE thought that she would follow in the footsteps of many of her classmates and go into the world of advertising. After graduating from Ithaca College, a sudden sense of clarity changed her mind. The thought of working in Corporate America with minimal personal gratification, and no benefit to her community, was unappealing. By chance, she was offered her first job at Challenge Industries, Inc., an organization which offers vocational services for individuals who are disabled. Her experience at Challenge Industries, which centered on fundraising, changed her life forever. At that moment she was sold on a career in philanthropy. 

After she left Challenge Industries, Lisa became Community Relations/Development Specialist at Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca, managing their annual giving program and volunteers, donor recognition, and special events. Lisa then relocated to Massachusetts where she continues to work in the field of development, with a focus on healthcare organizations.

Currently, Lisa is the Associate Development Officer at Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge where she is responsible for the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individual prospects within the communities Mount Auburn serves.

According to Lisa, “Stewardship is the most gratifying job, and I look forward to continuing along this career path. I want to be able to help organizations remember that stewardship is a means to sustain and acquire new donors.”

Future Leaders in Philanthropy: What do you believe is the best way to be involved in professional organizations that are mainly dominated by more experienced members?

Lisa Nappi: Join various committees, boards, and professional organizations within the philanthropy community. You will be able to develop your own community and relationships with other professionals. To avoid generational issues and being lost in the shuffle, volunteer as much as possible within the organization; they are always looking for volunteers.  Just remember not to spread yourself too thin. Organizations and those involved respect individuals who take the initiative to get involved. Remember that the extra responsibility should not be taken lightly; if you do not fulfill your obligations, all credibility you looked to gain will be thrown out the window.  I have used volunteering as a means to develop my professional community, which has proven to be beneficial for my career.

FLiP: What do you believe is the most important thing to know when entering into the field of philanthropy?

LN: Not only is being involved in professional groups important, but working in an organization for the “right reason” is important for your own personal success and satisfaction. You need to believe in your organization’s mission and goals before you can convince a donor that your organization is the right organization for their support. Overall, fundraising and development is about helping someone. There is a caring aspect for each individual involved. You shouldn’t look at your donor as another check in the bank, but as a person whose values are one with the organizations.

FLiP: What do you feel is the hardest part about fundraising?

LN: Nothing is within your control. You can plan and plan, but that might not matter. In the end, you must give up control and rely on your knowledge of the donor and the organization to help you get to your goal. Be prepared for everything and expect nothing.

FLiP: When making the “ask”, what steps should someone new to the field take?

LN: Do your homework!!! Research on the donor and the organization is key to your success. There will be times that a donor will ask you a question you may not have the answer to; remember it is ok to say you are unsure of the answer and that you will get back to them. It is better to have someone who is better equipped answer the question, then making an incorrect answer. You are building a relationship with your donor that you hope will continue for future years to come; don’t start off on the wrong foot.

FLiP: How would you handle the need for higher education for the FLiP community?

LN: Although higher education is now being seen as a necessary factor to be successful, you are still currently able to work in the field with out it. While you are in the field working, there are many professional certifications that encompass success and experience. These certifications are highly regarded because they require the professional to maintain a higher standard, something I found very important.

FLiP: Do you have any final suggestions for Future Leaders in Philanthropy?

LN: It is important to be very involved in your professional career. I would suggest starting off in a small company with a limited amount of staff. This will become beneficial, because you will have the ability to gain valuable hands-on experience unlike in larger organizations. Make sure you make the most of your first few jobs; ask questions, and volunteer to work on different projects. Remember to always take ownership and pride in your work; this will prove fruitful in the end. Philanthropy is a career that you will have much joy and success if you put the time and effort in.

Please feel free to contact the FLiP community at wschneider@changingourworld.com with any questions you might have for Lisa Nappi.