susan@magdalenhouse.org
A born and raised Texan, Susan brings a wealth of experience to her role as Chief Development Officer at The Magdalen House.
She earned her stripes as a Brand Manager at The Richards Group advertising agency where she worked on a variety of accounts like The Home Depot, TGI Friday’s, and Zales Jewelry stores, managing national campaigns for these industry heavy hitters. Following the arrival of her two children, Susan cultivated a robust freelance client roster and continued to provide brand management guidance to a variety of clients around the nation.
As part of the Development team at West Dallas Community School, Susan helped advance development efforts to raise more than $4 million annually to fund a private, faith-based school serving one of the country’s most socially, economically, and educationally underserved neighborhoods. She authored all grant proposals and funding solicitation, resulting in a 77% award rate.
Relying on her advertising agency experience, she orchestrated a complete overhaul of all school marketing materials to create brand identity and communication continuity, as well as concepting separate annual branded giving campaigns for calendar and fiscal year-end efforts.
“I firmly believe EVERY person at The Magdalen House is part of the Development team,” says Susan. “There is no better ambassador for our mission than the people who seek help here, the people who give that help, and those working for the betterment of this agency every day.”
A passionate volunteer, Susan has served on various community advisory boards benefitting Lakewood neighborhood schools and parks. On the weekends you can find her reading a good book, perfecting her new bread baking hobby, or walking at White Rock Lake with her husband, Gregg.