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 align 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 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 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.