Suzanne B. Laporte

About Suzanne B. Laporte

Forward thinking social impact leader focused on addressing society\'s biggest challenges. Currently leading a national membership organization focused on the role of horticulture in improving the environmental and the health of individuals, communities and the planet. Adept at engaging individuals interested in making an impact in their community and in society. Experience in nonprofit turnarounds including financial stability, staff alignment, program development, systems and infrastructure improvement, mission and vision articulation and fulfillment, major giving, technology and infrastructure, and board governance.Extensive experience leading nonprofits, strengthening communities across the country, and engaging business professionals and individuals committed to social issues. I have worked closely with corporate partners to achieve their corporate social responsibility goals and increase social impact. I have also provided capacity building programs for foundations seeking to increase the capacity of grantees.Adept at evaluating nonprofit performance, managing financial results, increasing program impact, and raising six- and seven-figure gifts. Expanded single employee start-up organization from one program in Washington, DC to multiple programs in four cities with program expansion to Philadelphia, Chicago, and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Innovated programming to meet changing needs of nonprofits and the individuals and communities they serve. Increased consulting services, created a Center for Nonprofit Governance to include successful board matching and training program, and launched cohort to support nonprofit leaders and boards in bringing a DEI lens to their organization and programs.

Experience

1. President & CEO

   American Horticultural Society

   Mar 2022 — Present · Alexandria, VA, US

   AHS is a 100-year-old national membership organization for home gardeners and horticulturists interested in supporting healthy communities and a livable planet. AHS is located at River Farm, a 26-acre historic property that belonged to George Washington on the Potomac River in Alexandria, VA. I\'ve led efforts to turn around the organization, enhancing internal effectiveness, rebuilding the reputation, and finding relevance in a changing world. Efforts included updating mission and vision, aligning staff and programs, and upgrading technology, as well as: 1) ensuring consistent branding and messaging to engage and retain members, supporters and neighbors, 2) fundraising to support both national organization and local property, and 3) overseeing, maintaining, planning for, and supporting River Farm as a vibrant community asset and the place where AHS lives its mission.

Education

• Smith College

  AB, History

• Harvard Business School

  MBA, General Management