With more than a decade working in the nonprofit sector, Susan is passionate about the power of philanthropy and helping organizations meet and exceed their goals to fulfill their missions. Based in Chicago, Susan has experience working with major gifts, mid-level donors, planned giving, capital campaigns, and creating and executing fundraising strategies and events.
Beyond Chicago, Susan has worked in Boston, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, and Washington DC, and she brings her knowledge and expertise from these special communities to each of her current projects and clients. A relationship builder and people connector, Susan was also involved in grassroots political mobilizations and encouraging citizens to get involved in the political process with their voice and their financial support.
Before founding Sapphire Fundraising Specialists, Susan held fundraising and management roles at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Susan graduated from George Washington University in Washington, DC with a major in Communication and a double minor in Political Science and Business Administration.
Susan is a frequent speaker at conferences, webinars, and board meetings on fundraising topics and nonprofit board management. If you are interested in booking Susan for a speaking role, please go to the Contact Page and select Speaking Role.
Key Takeaways:
“The key thing when it comes to fundraising is relationship building. ”
“You should have a goal for the meeting. You should be showing that you prepared for the meeting. Listening is a critical leadership skill.”
“Fundraising can be really difficult and time-consuming. So do what you can. You don't have to do everything. Start with something.”
- Susan Kahan
Reach out to Susan Kahan at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-kahan/
Website: https://sapphirefundraisingspecialists.com/
Be more confident, credible & convincing to your board & supporters without feeling rejected, ineffective, or pushy.
Learn to manage your mindset, lead yourself and others more effectively and have the meaningful conversations that drive your most important work.
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Connect with Maryanne Dersch: maryanne@courageouscommunication.com
Let’s Work Together to Amplify Your Leadership + Influence
1. Group Coaching for Nonprofit Leaders
Want to lead with more clarity, confidence, and influence? My group coaching program is designed for nonprofit leaders who are ready to communicate more powerfully, navigate challenges with ease, and move their organizations forward.
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I work hands-on with nonprofit teams to strengthen leadership, improve communication, and align around a shared vision. Whether you’re growing fast or feeling stuck, we’ll create more clarity, collaboration, and momentum—together.
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Your board has big potential. I’ll help you unlock it. My engaging, no-fluff retreats and trainings are built to energize your board, refocus on what matters, and generate real results.
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Connect with Maryanne about her coaching programs:
https://www.courageouscommunication.com/connect
Book Maryanne to speak at your conference:
https://www.courageouscommunication.com/nonprofit-keynote-speaker
