Mastering Fundraising

Mastering Fundraising: A Conversation with Dr. Sheryl A. Bourgeois - Episode 5


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Mastering Fundraising with Dr. Cheryl A. Bourgeois

Reinventing Organizations, Building a Culture for Philanthropy, and Executing with Discipline

In this episode of Mastering Fundraising, Chris Looney welcomes Dr. Cheryl A. Bourgeois, President and CEO of the St. John’s Health Center Foundation in Santa Monica, California .

Since stepping into her role in 2023, Dr. Bourgeois has led the foundation through its 50th anniversary while surpassing ambitious fundraising goals, raising more than $41 million to advance medical care, research, and patient services. But this conversation goes far beyond revenue totals.

Dr. Bourgeois offers a candid look at what it takes to step into long established institutions and thoughtfully lead change without dishonoring legacy. She shares how listening tours, data analysis, and board engagement laid the groundwork for reinvention while preserving trust.

You will hear practical insights on:

  • Leading through imposter syndrome and learning in real time
  • Honoring the past while introducing bold new strategies
  • Building a true culture for philanthropy across an entire organization
  • Why nonprofits must operate with the same discipline and accountability as any for profit enterprise
  • Designing five year strategic plans that are aspirational, measurable, and actionable
  • Using dashboards and clear KPIs to drive performance and transparency
  • Remaining nimble when environmental disruptions threaten even the best laid plans
  • Dr. Bourgeois also challenges leaders to reject complacency. Continuous improvement is not optional. It is essential for relevance, growth, and long term impact.

    If you are a nonprofit executive, chief advancement officer, or board leader seeking clarity on strategic planning, culture building, and execution, this episode delivers both inspiration and a practical roadmap.

    Listen now and consider: Is your organization evolving fast enough to remain essential?

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    Mastering FundraisingBy FulcrumLeader