Whitney Athayde

About Whitney Athayde

As a nonprofit strategist with over 20 years of experience, I specialize in helping nonprofits unlock their full potential. I’ve worked alongside organizations ranging from think tanks to faith-based initiatives, raising millions of dollars and driving transformative results. Whether it’s crafting compelling donor communications, designing sustainable fundraising plans, or closing high-value opportunities, I thrive on equipping mission-driven organizations to make a bigger impact. Beyond my professional role, I am passionate about mentoring young Christian women as they navigate their careers and callings. From sharing lessons learned in leadership to offering guidance on balancing work and faith, I aim to inspire the next generation of women to lead with purpose and confidence. When I’m not working or mentoring, you’ll find me homeschooling my four children and tending to our farm in Charlottesville, Virginia.Let’s connect if you’re: 1⃣ A nonprofit in need of fundraising expertise to take your mission further. 2⃣ A young professional Christian woman seeking a mentor to help you chart your career path with clarity and faith. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear your story!

Experience

1. Director

   AmPhil

   Apr 2025 — Present · Charlottesville, VA, US

   I help nonprofit leaders fund their missions with confidence and clarity.With 20+ years of experience in strategic fundraising and donor engagement, I’ve worked with policy organizations, educational institutions, and mission-driven startups to raise millions of dollars—often from scratch. Currently, I lead a high-performing team of consultants at AmPhil, managing over $2.1M in revenue, and delivering customized development strategies that drive real results for clients.My fundraising approach blends data-driven strategy with the deeply human work of donor cultivation. Whether it\'s closing major gifts, crafting compelling donor messaging, or building scalable development systems, I love helping organizations grow without burning out their people.But my work doesn’t stop with fundraising. I’m also passionate about investing in the next generation of women leaders. As a Christian professional, wife, and mother I’ve walked an unconventional career path—and I’m here to mentor other women doing the same. If you\'re trying to navigate your calling, your career, and your convictions, I’d be honored to walk with you. Looking for strategic fundraising support?‍ Seeking a mentor who’s been where you are?Let’s connect.

Education

• University of Virginia

  B.A., Political Science

  2002 — 2005

• George Mason University

  M.P.P., Public Policy

• Southern Methodist University

  N/a

  2001 — 2002

Skills

• Public Relations
• Media Relations
• Program Management
• Grants
• Policy
• Public Policy
• Writing
• Event Planning
• Politics
• Newsletters
• Philanthropy
• Nonprofits
• Research
• Strategic Communications
• Editing
• Budgets
• Policy Analysis
• Community Outreach
• Political Campaigns
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Volunteer Management
• Non-Profits
• Fundraising
• Proposal Writing
• International Relations
• Program Development
• Strategic Planning
• Coalitions