Steve Wasser

About Steve Wasser

An Advancement leader in veteran services, higher education and healthcare fundraising including four highly successful campaigns in the past twenty years. Proven management experience over the past twenty years. Strong and clear communicator who understands that relationships are the key to an Advancement team’s success. Expertise in formulating campaign plans, building major gift programs, creating vibrant annual giving strategies, inspiring planned gifts and ensuring that all members of the Advancement team are working in unison. Experience in rebuilding and teaming with Boards of Directors. Ability to see the bigger picture while remaining vigilant of the steps that will lead to success. Most importantly, a deep respect for our donors and the act of philanthropy: when performed with integrity, joy and the right amount of planning, fundraising is a blessing for all involved.

Experience

1. Chief of Development

   Semper Fi & America\'s Fund

   Sep 2024 — Present

   As Chief of Development, I lead the organization’s comprehensive fundraising and donor engagement strategy in support of critically wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families.I oversee four core teams—Major Gift Officers, Corporations & Foundations, Stewardship & Reporting, and Planned Giving—ensuring that our fundraising efforts are both mission-aligned and deeply donor-centered. Together, we focus on building authentic, long-term relationships that honor the trust our supporters place in us and translate generosity into lasting impact for those who have sacrificed in service to our nation.In partnership with executive leadership, the board of directors, and frontline fundraisers, I help shape strategy, strengthen governance engagement, and foster a culture of stewardship and accountability. I am responsible for securing $60M+ annually, balancing near-term revenue goals with sustainable growth, thoughtful stewardship, and future-focused philanthropy.At the heart of my work is a simple belief: when donors clearly see the lives they change, generosity becomes transformational.

Education

• Washington and Lee University

  Bachelor of Arts, Psychology

  1990 — 1994

• Washington and Lee University

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Psychology

  1990 — 1994

Skills

• Annual Giving
• Grants
• Alumni Relations
• Event Planning
• Program Management
• Public Speaking
• Marketing
• Volunteering
• Direct Mail
• Community Outreach
• Higher Education
• Marketing Communications
• Stewardship
• Nonprofits
• Volunteer Management
• Healthcare
• Philanthropy
• Fundraising
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Project Planning