About Kathy

With nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, I work with senior leaders to help their organizations navigate growth and a changing philanthropic landscape. My work focuses on helping institutions translate complex priorities into clear decisions and aligned action, connecting strategy, structure, and insight so that priorities, decisions, and execution reinforce one another.

Over the course of my career, I have found that advancement challenges are rarely just fundraising challenges. They are often institutional challenges shaped by leadership priorities, organizational structures, and the realities of how work actually happens across an institution.

Before founding Kathy Howrigan Consulting, I served as Vice President for Strategic Engagement at the University of Vermont Foundation, where I helped develop a more data-driven, audience-focused approach to alumni, donor, and volunteer engagement and led the launch of two campaigns.

As a consultant, I have worked with more than 100 nonprofit organizations on initiatives including campaign strategy, organizational design, and annual giving.

While I work independently, I stay closely connected to colleagues across the advancement field.

About the Logo

Several years ago, I was hiking on a local trail in Vermont with my husband and three sons when we came upon a bench overlooking a breathtaking view. From that spot, we could see both the trees right in front of us and the horizon in the distance — the details and the bigger picture at the same time.

That perspective reflects how I approach my work: helping institutions see both the immediate realities and the long-term possibilities that shape successful advancement strategy.

And of course, the beauty of Vermont is part of the inspiration as well.