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Wendy Chou
Director of Planned Giving for Stanford Medical Center Development at Stanford University
Professional Background
Wendy Chou is a highly respected professional with extensive experience in planned giving and philanthropic advisory. Currently, she serves as the Director of Planned Giving for the Stanford Medical Center Development at Stanford University, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of philanthropy within the healthcare sector. Wendy's career is marked by her dedication to advancing charitable giving and ensuring that organizations can build lasting relationships with their donors. Her proficiency in this niche has made her a sought-after consultant and thought leader in the planned giving arena.
Before embarking on her current position, Wendy honed her skills as the Senior Philanthropic Advisor at The Oregon Community Foundation, reinforcing her expertise in connecting donors with impactful charitable opportunities. Her earlier stints include significant roles such as Director of Planned Giving at Silicon Valley Community Foundation, where she was instrumental in developing and implementing strategies that enhanced donor engagement and maximized contributions to various community projects.
Moreover, Wendy has held positions as Relationship Manager at Kaspick & Company, where she further refined her abilities to foster relationships and drive successful philanthropic initiatives. Her tenure with Boston College is also noteworthy, as she played crucial roles as the Director and Associate Director of Gift Planning, overseeing the development and execution of the institution's charitable giving strategies.
Wendy's expertise is complemented by her involvement with the Planned Giving Group of New England, where she served as a Board Member, contributing her insights to enhance the broader charitable landscape. Moreover, her earlier work at Santa Clara University, where she was the Associate Director, and subsequent roles focused on donor records and stewardship at San Jose State University, illustrates her depth of knowledge and her commitment to education and community service.
Education and Achievements
Wendy Chou's educational credentials lay a strong foundation for her exceptional career in philanthropy and planned giving. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Santa Clara University School of Law, where she studied the intricacies of law which play an essential role in charitable estate planning. Wendy's legal education equips her with the necessary skills to navigate the complex web of regulations governing philanthropic giving and donor management.
Additionally, Wendy holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and History from Tufts University. This unique blend of studies not only sharpens her analytical skills but also provides her with a global perspective on philanthropy, empowering her to understand the critical social dynamics driving charitable giving across different cultures and societies. Wendy’s diverse educational background underpins her effectiveness as a leader in the nonprofit sector.
Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Wendy Chou has achieved significant milestones that highlight her commitment to philanthropic excellence and community engagement. Her role in the planning and execution of major giving programs has resulted in millions of dollars in funds directed towards various causes, enriching lives across communities. Her strategic thinking and relationship management skills have enabled her to successfully navigate the complexities of fundraising within the competitive nonprofit landscape.
Wendy has also pioneered new initiatives that educate both donors and internal stakeholders about the benefits of planned giving, fostering a culture of generosity and belonging in the organizations she has served. Her thought leadership extends to hosting workshops and seminars aimed at empowering nonprofit professionals to upscale their fundraising efforts, further demonstrating her dedication to the sector.
In her previous roles, such as Director of Research, Donor Records, and Stewardship at San Jose State University, Wendy established meticulous systems for donor stewardship, which have become crucial benchmarks for ensuring that donor contributions are managed transparently and effectively. Her early experiences as an intern at reputable institutions like the University of California and her work in Tufts University’s Office of Estate have also significantly contributed to her profound understanding of the philanthropic landscape.
Wendy Chou's career is a testament to her unwavering passion for philanthropy and her ability to forge enduring partnerships that inspire generosity. Her skills in planned giving, strategic philanthropy, and donor engagement position her uniquely to impact organizations positively. Wendy not only leads by example within her field but also mentors the next generation of philanthropic leaders, ensuring that her contributions continue to resonate far beyond her immediate accomplishments.
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