Marian SternAbout

Fundraising And Philanthropy Consultant

For the past 25+ years as an independent consultant, I have worked with a wide range of public charities, providing fundraising, board development, strategic planning and coaching services. With each of my clients, I customized my work after having analyzed their needs and strategic goals. Additionally, I have provided consulting services to funding organizations to refine and improve their philanthropic policies and practices.

Philanthropy Professor

I was an adjunct assistant professor at New York University from 2007 through 2017 in the School of Professional Studies – Heyman Center for Philanthropy and Fundraising’s master’s program, where I taught courses on the Psychology of Philanthropy, the History of American Philanthropy, and the Board of Trustees.

From 2016 to 2017, I was a faculty member in the Columbia University Master’s in Fundraising Management program teaching the Advanced Fundraising Project.

From 2002- 2007 I was also on faculty at Rutgers University in the American Studies Department.

Corporate Philanthropy Executive

As Manager of Community Programming at Chemical Bank, I directed over $10 million in corporate contributions annually, worked with bank senior management to formulate philanthropic policy, and provided technical assistance to non-profit organizations throughout New York City. I also helped to establish and supervised the Bank’s Volunteer Center. Our strategy of “enlightened self-interest” strategically advanced the Bank’s commercial objectives while demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility.

Community Volunteer

As a volunteer in my community, I have provided similar support to local organizations, with my work ranging from creating fundraising campaigns and consulting on board/governance issues, to developing strategic plans and events. I have served on the boards of such organizations as the Ensemble Studio Theatre, Philanthropy New York, Rachel Coalition (domestic violence agency), and Jewish Family Service of MetroWest, NJ.

Education

I have a Master’s in Public Administration from the Robert Wagner School of Public Service, New York University, and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from Rutgers University.