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Josh Pushkin
Chief Development Officer at Lambda Legal
Professional Background
Josh Pushkin is a notable philanthropic-goal minded Development Consultant with a distinguished career dedicated to enhancing the missions of non-profit organizations. With deep expertise in fundraising strategies, donor engagement, and philanthropic alignment, Josh has consistently guided numerous non-profits to surpass their goals effectively. His innovative approach facilitates multi-level partnerships that not only promote but advance the vital missions and messaging for organizations across various sectors, including the arts, social justice, and environmental initiatives.
As a sought-after Development Consultant, Josh has transformed the development strategies and practices of both boutique and large organizations. His rich portfolio includes campaigns, fundraisers, feasibility studies, and events designed to empower non-profits to achieve and exceed their fundraising targets. In addition to his consultancy work, he is committed to helping charities craft impactful cases that deliver measurable outcomes within defined timeframes and budget constraints.
Education and Achievements
Josh Pushkin's educational background laid a robust foundation for his professional journey, beginning with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University. Recognizing the importance of effective leadership in the non-profit realm, he pursued a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) with a focus on Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management, also at Cornell University. His academic credentials have provided him with a unique understanding of the multifaceted challenges faced by non-profits, equipping him to deliver exceptional advisory services.
Josh’s extensive career spans several esteemed organizations, where he has held prominent roles, including the Chief Development Officer at Lambda Legal and former Vice President of Development at the Ms. Foundation for Women. His leadership has been instrumental in cultivating donor relationships, creating tailored donor engagement strategies, and successfully implementing change management practices that resonate with diverse stakeholder groups.
Notable Experience
In his role as Chief Development Officer at Lambda Legal, Josh spearheaded fundraising efforts that significantly advanced the organization's mission to ensure equality and justice for LGBTQ individuals and those with HIV. His tenure at the Ms. Foundation for Women witnessed the development of numerous programs aimed at improving women's rights and empowerment, solidifying his commitment to social justice.
Additionally, Josh has amassed invaluable experience as a Development & Philanthropic Consultant at PUSH Consulting, advising numerous charities on how to enhance their philanthropic initiatives and increase donor engagement. His previous positions as Chief Development Officer at PILnet, Director of Major Gifts at AFS-USA, and roles at Housing Works, Rainforest Alliance, and the New York Public Library showcase his versatility and commitment to advancing the non-profit sector. Each role involved strategic planning, donor cultivation, and campaign consulting that ultimately helped these organizations thrive.
Specialties and Skills
Josh Pushkin specializes in strategic development consulting and philanthropic advisory services, bringing a wealth of skills to the non-profit sector. His specialties include:
- Prospect/Donor Identification: Expertise in identifying and engaging potential donors to build sustainable funding for initiatives.
- Donor Cultivation & Client Relations: Foster long-lasting relationships with donors through effective communication and tailored engagement strategies.
- Philanthropic Initiative Agreement: Assist organizations in crafting agreements that align donor interests with organizational missions.
- Change Management & Executive Coaching: Provide guidance in navigating organizational change to enhance internal capabilities.
- Fundraising & Event Planning: Design and execute successful fundraising campaigns and events tailored to the organization's goals.
- Talent Training, Management & Recruitment: Mentor and train non-profit teams to develop essential skills for success.
- Feasibility Studies & Campaign Consulting: Conduct comprehensive studies to evaluate potential fundraising initiatives and advise on campaign strategies.
- International Development: Experience in global philanthropy and the unique challenges of charitable work across borders.
- Non-Profit Technology System Optimization: Enhance operational efficiency through the integration of technology in fundraising processes.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Josh Pushkin has had a measurable impact on the organizations he has served. His innovative strategies have not only elevated their fundraising capabilities but have also improved their operational efficiencies.
With a proven track record of exceeding goals, his work has inspired successful campaigns that have significantly increased donor engagement and funds raised for critical social causes. His ability to adapt to the changing landscape of philanthropy, combined with a strong understanding of donor motivations, positions him as a leader in the consulting space.
Josh has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing the missions of the organizations he collaborates with, whether through individual giving, major donor campaigns, or corporate partnerships. His collaborative approach has resulted in meaningful relationships that foster growth and sustainability for non-profits striving to make a positive difference in society.
Beyond impressive career accomplishments, Josh Pushkin's passion for nurturing impactful philanthropic initiatives and his dedication to supporting humanitarian and environmentally-focused organizations continues to set him apart in the realm of development consulting.
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