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About

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Gregory J. Griffin, CFRE has spent a lifetime helping organizations develop and implement comprehensive strategic advancement programs that have raised more than $50 million dollars for mission-critical programs and initiatives.

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When my daughters were little and tried explaining what daddy did for a living, they would proudly exclaim, "My daddy is a "FUNraiser!" As I reflect on a wonderful career in professional development, I can honestly say that they were not far from the truth!

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I have lived a professional life of "fun" through fundraising and I am ready to bring this same enthusiasm and experience to your organization to meet your advancement challenges, big or small

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Innovation, Enthusiasm, Professionalism: A Model for Fundraising Success

Gregory J. Griffin has worked for colleges & universities, faith-based organizations and non-profits including St. Lawrence University, Syracuse University, Alfred University, Jefferson Community College, the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, CBM-US and the Muscular Dystrophy Association In his 25 year career as an advancement professional. He is proud to say that every institution he has been privileged to serve has thrived under his leadership and have continued to prosper from the precedents, plans, and programs he helped to launch.

 

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Professional Highlights

Greg is well-regarded as an fundraising leader and innovator as evidenced by a lifetime of accomplishments:

  • Successfully lead the merger of the alumni relations and annual giving offices at St. Lawrence University to create the office of alumni and parent programs.

  • Grew the St. Lawrence Fund to over $4 million for the first-time in the Institution's history.

  • Developed the first-ever library advancement program at Syracuse University.

  • Created S.U.'s first development predictive model database to propel the Library to 5 straight year's of fundraising growth

  • Raised over $26 million as the first congregational director of mission advancement for the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities.

  • Conceptualized and developed the award-winning "Franciscan Spirit" Magazine. 

  • Secured only the third, six figure non-bequest gift in Jefferson Community College's history.

  • Created the Jefferson Corporate Partnership Program more than doubling corporate support to JCC in the first year.

  • Developed the first $100,000 "Jail and Bail" event for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in New York State.

Strategic Planning Experience

Griffin has successfully led or participated in several strategic planning efforts for organizations including:

  • Jefferson Community College Foundation

  • Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities.

  • Stella Maris Spiritual Retreat Center

  • St. Marianne Cope Museum and Shrine

  • St. Francis Hospital, Honolulu, HI

  • Syracuse University Library

  • University of Minnesota Library

  • St. Lawrence University

  • Dunbar Association

 

Current Strategic Planning Projects Include:

  • Myrtle Beach Auctions and Cabinetry

  • Wild Carp Club of CNY

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Greg lives in Liverpool, NY with his wife Sarah, daughters Taylor and Emma and son, Ben. Balancing a healthy family life with being active in his professional and personal communities is his number one priority.

 

Education & Professional Certifications

  • Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)

  • M.B.A., Alfred University, Alfred, NY

  • B.A. English Writing/Government, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY    

 

Organizations and Activities

  • Ordained Minister, Universal Life Church

  • Member, International Rotary Club

  • Member, Association of Fundraising Professionals

  • Parish Council Member, Pope John XXIII Catholic Church

  • Former planning Committee Member, SUNY Conference of Advancement Professionals

  • Former Vice-Chairman, Board of Directors, National Catholic Development Conference

  • Former Member Board of Directors, Radisson Greens Golf Club

  • Former Vice Chairman, Board of Directors, Dunbar Association,

  • Former Chair, Central New York Reads 2005-2006

  • Former Member, SU Library Strategic Management Group

                  

More About Greg
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Griffin has written dozens of articles and columns for advancement trade-based publications and has been a featured speaker at state-wide and national trade-association conferences.

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Publications

  • Jefferson Insider Magazine

  • Dimensions Magazine: A Publication of the National Catholic Development Conference

  • Franciscan Spirit Magazine

  • Our Common Heart Monthly Newsletter of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities.

  • St. Lawrence University Magazine

  • Bottom Line: Managing Library Finances

 

Presentations

  • SUNY Community College Conference of University Advancement (SUNY CUAD CC). 

  • National Catholic Development Conference (NCDC).

  • National Academic Library Advancement & Development Network (ALADN) Conference.

  • Sharing the Annual Fund Fundamentals (STAFF) Conference.

 

Presentations & Publications
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Small Business Services

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Let Griffin SAA help your small business position itself for optimal growth without maximum headaches. Take a look at our full-range of stress-relieving services!

Fundraising Services

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Whether you just starting out or trying to sharpen the saw, Griffin SAA provides comprehensive support for your fundraising needs

Charity Auctions

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Looking to spice up your special events and raise significantly more in the process?

 

Check out our one-stop solution to dynamic live charity auctions!

Gap
Support

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Have you lost a key member of your development team? 

 

Let Griffin SAA fill the gap with a capable development professional for 1-6 months while searching for your perfect long-term solution!

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