Paul J. Strawhecker

With extensive experience in marketing, planning and public relations Paul’s unique capabilities enable clients to develop effective communications with all types of donors from cosmopolitan to rural. He is able to successfully interpret institutional needs that resonate with donors’ values and philanthropic desires.

Paul has extensive experience in health care related institutions including service as Vice President for Lutheran Health Systems (now Banner Health). Paul’s higher education experience includes serving as Vice President of Advancement for Northwood University managing a national development program for campuses in Michigan , Florida and Texas.

Paul has extensive faith based and government experience together with expertise serving major national social service organizations including Boys Town (now Girls and Boys Town). Specializing in the development of planned giving programs, Paul initiated the program at Boys Town and assisted the Archdiocese of Omaha’s planned giving efforts by conducting over 60 estate planning seminars. His experience in government included serving as assistant to the Mayor of Omaha, responsible for all social service programs including securing funds, contracting with nonprofit providers and managing outcomes.

Currently, Paul is Chair of the Association of Fundraising Professionals US Foundation on Philanthropy. He has served as President of AFP Chapters in Michigan , North Dakota and Nebraska . Since 1995, Paul has taught as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Nebraska ’s Omaha Graduate School of Public Administration. He also directs the University’s Certificate in Fundraising Management program.

Paul has authored the book, Capital Campaign Implementation: Are You Ready?, and the textbook, Fund Raising Overview: A Key to Non-Profit Organizational Success.

Paul has a Masters degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in Public Administration and a degree in Sociology and Political Science from Creighton University . He is one of the few Advanced Certified Fundraising Executives (ACFRE) certified by the AFP.

When not working, Paul enjoys spending time with his family, bicycling and pursuing his interest in automotive design and history. One of Paul’s favorite activities is taking short trips with his wife in her convertible with the top down.