A Visionary Leader in Fundraising
Kim Verstandig’s 30 years of fundraising experience in the nonprofit and higher education sectors have been defined by a passionate commitment to advancing institutional missions, fostering meaningful donor relationships, and achieving transformational results.
At Mackey Strategies, Kim serves as Vice President for Fundraising & Senior Strategist, delivering expertise in campaign planning, principal gift strategy, and team building for clients across the nation. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, creativity, and a results-oriented approach, making her an invaluable partner for institutions seeking to inspire generosity and achieve ambitious goals.
Fundraising Achievements
Kim’s remarkable track record includes leading the largest and most successful campaign in Connecticut College’s history. Under her leadership, the Defy Boundaries campaign surpassed its $300 million goal a full year ahead of schedule, delivering five consecutive record-breaking fundraising years. Her work helped secure six of the largest gifts the college had ever received, ranging from $10 million to $30 million, while also strengthening the institution’s fundraising infrastructure and donor relationships.
Prior to her time at Connecticut College, Kim held leadership roles at Skidmore College, The Albany Academies, Albany Medical Center, and Bucknell University. In these roles, developed expertise all aspects of fundraising, from campaign planning and donor engagement to coaching frontline staff and volunteers, all grounded in her conviction about the value of a lasting culture of philanthropy.
A Strategic Partner for Institutions
Kim is more than a fundraiser—she’s a strategist, team builder, and storyteller. Her approach combines strategic insight with an ability to connect with people on a personal level. She excels at:
Assessing and optimizing fundraising infrastructure
Coaching executives in gift solicitation
Mentoring staff and volunteers in applying best fundraising practices
Designing and executing comprehensive campaign strategies
Securing transformational gifts
Aligning communications and marketing with philanthropic goals
Kim’s integrity, professionalism, and deeply held convictions about the value of education and service align perfectly with Mackey Strategies’ mission of building lasting partnerships and delivering meaningful results.
Experience & Leadership Highlights
Connecticut College: Vice President for Advancement
Directed the Defy Boundaries campaign, surpassing $300M goal ahead of schedule
Secured six of the institution’s largest-ever gifts
Delivered five consecutive record-breaking fundraising years
Built a campaign-ready, multi-faceted advancement team, from databases to personnel and practices
Skidmore College: Interim Vice President for Advancement, Associate Vice President for Advancement & Campaign Director
The Albany Academies, Albany Medical Center, and Bucknell University: Leadership roles in fundraising and institutional advancement
Education and Values
Kim earned an M.S. in education and a B.A. in business administration from Bucknell University. Her work is driven by her passion for advancing education and the nonprofit sector. As a listener, communicator, and collaborator, Kim builds meaningful relationships that lead to lasting success. Her vision and expertise have made her a trusted advisor to leaders and teams pursuing exciting fundraising goals.
