Jill Watson

About Jill Watson

For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working on behalf of the health sciences at the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association (WFAA), a nonprofit organization that supports the University of Wisconsin–Madison. As Associate Vice President for Development and Managing Director for Medical Advancement, I lead a talented team deeply committed to advancing the mission of Wisconsin Medicine and the School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH) in its tradition of excellence in teaching, research, and service.I bring a values-driven approach to leadership—rooted in integrity, fairness, lifelong learning, and a deep belief in the power of generosity to drive meaningful change. I’m passionate about connecting alumni and donors to opportunities that reflect their values and impact the future of health and education.My core competencies include philanthropic advising, fundraising strategy, stewardship, donor relations, fund management, and campus partnerships. I’ve led efforts to create new giving opportunities, reimagine engagement programs, and build a strong culture of philanthropy within the SMPH and the Wisconsin Medical Alumni Association (WMAA). I’m especially dedicated to medical student and alumni support, with a focus on scholarship funding.Collaborating closely with the SMPH dean’s office, WMAA, and a wide array of departments and centers, I work to align fundraising strategies with institutional goals and advance our shared mission. I was honored to receive the Honorary Life Membership award from the WMAA in recognition of my contributions and service—a reflection of how deeply I value relationships, trust, and lasting impact.

Experience

1. Associate Vice President for Development & Managing Director - Medical Advancement

   Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association

   Jul 2022 — Present · Madison, WI, US

Education

• California Culinary Academy/Le Cordon Bleu

  Associate of Arts and Sciences - AAS, Culinary

  1991 — 1993

• University of Hawaii at Manoa

  Travel Industry (Hotel-Restaurant) Management

  1987 — 1990

Skills

• Donor Acquisition
• Major Gift Cultivation
• Public Speaking
• Community Outreach
• Community Development
• Gift Planning
• Alumni Relations
• Donor Solicitation
• Program Development
• Capital Campaigns
• Major Donor Cultivation
• Major Gift Campaigns
• Major Gift Solicitations
• Non-Profits
• Donor Research
• Volunteering
• Donor Management
• Major Gift Development
• Moves Management
• Prospect Research
• Stewardship
• Educational Fundraising
• Donor Recognition
• Grant Writing
• Board Development
• Volunteer Management
• Philanthropy
• Capital Campaign Management
• Board Relations
• Donor Engagement
• Annual Fund
• Fundraising
• Planned Giving
• Major Donors
• Strategic Planning
• Annual Campaign
• Nonprofits
• Restaurants
• Event Planning
• Donor Development