Carmen Teresa Donohue, M.P.Aff.

Working for a Better Tomorrow

Greater Boston

About

I’m a passionate and purpose-driven fundraising professional with a proven history of building lasting philanthropic partnerships and advancing mission-aligned giving strategies. My whole career demonstrates my dexterity in capital campaign execution, major gifts, and strategic fundraising planning—especially when it comes to cultivating authentic donor relationships that drive transformational impact. Always a public servant, I am mission-driven and thrive by collaborating with others to execute data-driven fundraising programs. One of my key strengths lies in aligning donor passions with bold institutional goals, using a blend of research, storytelling, and data to craft compelling cases for support. Throughout my journey, I’ve partnered with high-net-worth individuals, nonprofit boards, and cross-functional teams to launch successful campaigns, develop personalized solicitation strategies, and foster lasting engagement through thoughtful stewardship. I’ve had the privilege of shaping and executing fundraising initiatives across major giving programs, planned giving, prospect research, and event-based fundraising. I thrive in collaborative environments, guiding teams through every phase of development while infusing emotional intelligence and strategic foresight into every interaction.

Experience

  • Senior Director at CCS Fundraising
    Jun 2022 - May 2025 · 3 yrs

    Between 2015-2025, conducted over 100 interviews per year with HNW individuals for capital campaign planning studies. Incorporated client fundraising data to write feasibility studies and to set data-driven campaign goals, raising approximately $25 million in total. Led over 15 capital campaigns for Catholic, Jewish, and Episcopal congregations. Developed campaign phases, tracked moves management of prospects, and presented regular reports to campaign committees, achieving campaign goals ranging from $500k to over $6 million. Researched HNW prospects to create individual cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies, drafted and prepared all campaign materials, including case statements, strategic plans, and comprehensive campaign major gift proposals. Trained clients in solicitation best practices.

  • Director of Advancement at Cristo Rey Boston High School
    Jul 2020 - Jun 2022 · 2 yrs

    During a hiatus from CCS, doubled annual fundraising outcomes during the COVID-19 crisis, generating nearly $4M in FY21 to offset the loss of Corporate Work Study revenue. Elevated the school’s philanthropic strategy by leading all development functions, including the annual fund, major gifts, institutional grants, and special events. Directed a cross-functional advancement team of three across operations, grants, and communications, ensuring alignment with fundraising goals and brand messaging. Launched and executed the 2020 “Bridge the Gap” campaign, securing extraordinary operating support during a time of unprecedented financial need. Strengthened donor and stakeholder engagement by planning and executing high-profile events such as Academic Signing Day galas, coordinating with trustees, honorees, and corporate sponsors

  • Senior Director at CCS Fundraising
    2015 - 2020 · 5 yrs

    Led feasibility studies and capital campaigns with a focus on faith communities. Clients included: -Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston - Inspiring Hope Campaign -Temple Emunah -Kerem Shalom -Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts -Boston Children's Chorus

  • Internal Auditor at Boston University
    2010 - 2015 · 5 yrs

    Conducted independent appraisal activity reviewing financial and operational activities of the University. Provided senior management with analyses, appraisals, and recommendations concerning activities reviewed. Assisted senior management in monitoring the overall effectiveness of the system of internal control in achieving broad objectives of the University.

  • Policy Analyst at US Government Accountability Office
    2002 - 2009 · 7 yrs

    Conducted program audits at U.S. federal executive branch agencies. Natural Resources & Environment team at Boston Field Office from August 2007. International Affairs & Trade team at Headquarters in Washington, DC from December 2004 to August 2007.