An Omaha native and proud Marian High School alum, Kathy’s journey into philanthropy began early. While earning her finance degree at Texas Christian University, she completed formative internships with the UNL Huskers Athletic Fund and the TCU Frog Club. Those experiences, and a mentor who recognized her talent, set her on a path toward a career in fundraising. 

Kathy began her professional journey at TD Ameritrade Institutional in San Diego before returning home to Nebraska, where she joined the University of Nebraska Foundation. She joined the College of Engineering team with an ambitious goal to fundraise $115 million for Kiewit Hall. She was able to witness both the facility’s opening and the measurable impact it had on higher enrollment and national rankings. 

Her approach to donor engagement is rooted in building trust-based relationships—connecting philanthropists’ values with meaningful opportunities to make a difference. Kathy has learned from mentors and peers alike, crediting their example for her ability to balance professional ambition with raising her three young sons. 

In addition to her professional achievements, Kathy holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is an active volunteer. She has been a mentor with the TeamMates program, served on the Omaha Catholic chapter board of directors, and was the GALA Chair in 2018. She also serves on the Children’s Friends Board of Directors and supports Heart Heroes with her time and talents. 

Kathy is especially inspired by the Omaha Community Foundation’s community leadership and the collaborative approach to impact.  

“I love the collective idea of what philanthropy can accomplish,” she said. “I’m excited to get to know Omaha through the nonprofits serving so many different people—and to help connect donors with causes that reflect their values.” 

Outside of work, Kathy and her husband enjoy spending time with their three boys. She’s also a competitive person—both on and off the court—having been a three-time state tennis champion in high school and once swinging a hole-in-one on her first wedding anniversary. 

Kathy’s passion for community, proven track record in fundraising, and dedication to connecting people with purpose will strengthen the Omaha Community Foundation’s work and fundholder experiences in powerful ways. We are eager to welcome her into this role and look forward to the meaningful connections and impact she will help create. 

The post From Fundraising to Philanthropy Services: Welcome Kathy Schubauer as Our New Director of Donor Services  appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

An Omaha native and proud Marian High School alum, Kathy’s journey into philanthropy began early. While earning her finance degree at Texas Christian University, she completed formative internships with the UNL Huskers Athletic Fund and the TCU Frog Club. Those experiences, and a mentor who recognized her talent, set her on a path toward a career in fundraising. 

Kathy began her professional journey at TD Ameritrade Institutional in San Diego before returning home to Nebraska, where she joined the University of Nebraska Foundation. She joined the College of Engineering team with an ambitious goal to fundraise $115 million for Kiewit Hall. She was able to witness both the facility’s opening and the measurable impact it had on higher enrollment and national rankings. 

Her approach to donor engagement is rooted in building trust-based relationships—connecting philanthropists’ values with meaningful opportunities to make a difference. Kathy has learned from mentors and peers alike, crediting their example for her ability to balance professional ambition with raising her three young sons. 

In addition to her professional achievements, Kathy holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and is an active volunteer. She has been a mentor with the TeamMates program, served on the Omaha Catholic chapter board of directors, and was the GALA Chair in 2018. She also serves on the Children’s Friends Board of Directors and supports Heart Heroes with her time and talents. 

Kathy is especially inspired by the Omaha Community Foundation’s community leadership and the collaborative approach to impact.  

“I love the collective idea of what philanthropy can accomplish,” she said. “I’m excited to get to know Omaha through the nonprofits serving so many different people—and to help connect donors with causes that reflect their values.” 

Outside of work, Kathy and her husband enjoy spending time with their three boys. She’s also a competitive person—both on and off the court—having been a three-time state tennis champion in high school and once swinging a hole-in-one on her first wedding anniversary. 

Kathy’s passion for community, proven track record in fundraising, and dedication to connecting people with purpose will strengthen the Omaha Community Foundation’s work and fundholder experiences in powerful ways. We are eager to welcome her into this role and look forward to the meaningful connections and impact she will help create. 

The post From Fundraising to Philanthropy Services: Welcome Kathy Schubauer as Our New Director of Donor Services  appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Our regular hours of operation are:

• Monday to Thursday: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.*

*From Memorial Day to Labor Day, we close at 3 p.m. on Fridays.

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This year, we are proud to announce that three of our staff members have been selected to participate in leadership programs that will enhance their ability to serve OCF and the community.

Laura Contreras – Hispanics in Philanthropy Líderes Fellowship

Senior Program Manager Laura Contreras has been invited to join the Hispanics in Philanthropy Líderes Fellowship program. The fellowship is dedicated to empowering Latinx leaders through relationship-building and leadership development. Contreras will be part of the ninth cohort, joining a national network of more than 250 Latinx leaders. Her involvement in the program will amplify her ability to advocate for the Latinx community within Omaha and beyond, enriching her work with OCF and the local nonprofit sector.

“ I’m deeply inspired by the passion and commitment of my cohort in the Hispanics in Philanthropy Líderes Fellowship,” Contreras said. “I’m particularly excited to engage in peer coaching that emphasizes cultural healing and safety, while also receiving one-on-one executive coaching, which will offer invaluable leadership support as I continue to navigate my role and the philanthropic sector.”

Wynter Davis – Leadership Omaha

Wynter Davis, Donor Services Advisor, will be a participating in Leadership Omaha. This 10-month program, hosted by the Greater Omaha Chamber, is designed to develop effective community leaders who are committed to community trusteeship, awareness, and impactful leadership. Davis will join a network of more than 1,700 Leadership Omaha alumni, where she’ll gain a deeper understanding of Omaha’s challenges and opportunities, and develop skills to drive positive change. Her participation will further strengthen her work with individual donors and the Omaha Venture Group, allowing her to bring new perspectives to her role at OCF.

“I am thrilled to have been selected to join Leadership Omaha,” Davis said. “This is an incredible opportunity for both personal and professional growth, and I can’t wait to embark on this journey. I look forward to meeting my fellow classmates, connecting with a diverse group of leaders, and learning from their experiences.”

Molly Mullen – LeadDIVERSITY

Molly Mullen, a Content Manager on OCF’s Communications & Marketing team, has been selected to join the sixth cohort of LeadDIVERSITY. The Inclusive Communities program, held in partnership with Omaha Public Power District, the Greater Omaha Chamber, and Tri-Faith Initiative, is focused on creating leaders who champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across the Midwest. Over the next nine months, Mullen will engage in critical discussions and training on these topics, gaining the expertise needed to anticipate and address DEI needs in both workplace and community settings. Mullen’s participation will enhance her contributions to OCF and help us better serve the diverse needs of our community.

“Being a part of LeadDIVERSITY is such an honor, and I’m truly excited about the collective impact we as advocates can have in our community,” Mullen said. “Omaha is my favorite place, and I’m committed to helping it grow into an even more inclusive and vibrant city. This program offers a unique opportunity to contribute to that growth, and I’m eager to bring what I learn back to the Omaha Community Foundation and the community as a whole.”

These leadership programs are more than just personal growth opportunities for our staff—they are integral to OCF’s pool of knowledge and resources for our partners. By investing in our team members, we are investing in the future of Omaha, ensuring that we can continue to support our donors and the community with the knowledge, passion, and leadership necessary to make a lasting impact.

The post OCF staff selected for leadership programs to deepen impact across Omaha community appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

“He was a buttoned-up businessman, but also dedicated to social justice, and he supported many local nonprofits,” Sally said.

At the end of each year, the couple planned out their charitable donations together. Gary orchestrated their contributions with precision, channeling funds to support not just their beloved Temple Israel but also various causes that resonated with their values. To make their giving easy, they set up a Donor Advised Fund at the Omaha Community Foundation.

When Gary passed away, Sally wasn’t sure how to carry on their charitable endeavors alone, but she wanted to continue their legacy of philanthropy, which had been the cornerstone of their life together.

She reached out to the Omaha Community Foundation and met with Nathan Morgan, her Donor Services Advisor. What began as a practical arrangement evolved into a deeply personal and impactful partnership.

Nathan’s role went beyond transactional information; he became Sally’s partner in navigating the often complicated charitable landscape. Their conversations were not just about how Donor Advised Funds operate. They discussed Sally’s values, her empathy, and her commitment to making a difference.

“The thing I love about working with Sally is that she is thoughtful with her philanthropy. She wants to know what is going on in the world and then use that knowledge to make an impact with her personal philanthropy,” Nathan said, “I really like being the resource for her and for all of our fundholders.”

When faced with heartbreaking news of disasters or conflicts, she turns to Nathan for guidance on impactful giving. A recent collaboration involves getting food into a war zone.

“When I watch CNN and see a disaster … I call Nathan and ask him who is on the ground doing the real work,” Sally said. “Nathan’s research and recommendations lead to donations, such as supporting World Kitchen’s efforts to provide food to the starving.”

Their partnership extends beyond financial transactions; it’s about sharing values and making a tangible difference in the world.

“It’s such a huge privilege to be able to donate,” Sally said. “OCF has such a special niche that I can make gifts whenever I want to. Nathan is such a big part of that.”

Her background as a social worker adds a layer of empathy and understanding to her philanthropy. Having witnessed suffering and resilience firsthand, Sally approaches giving not just as a financial transaction but as a deeply personal act of solidarity and compassion.

Sally’s journey reflects the essence of strategic philanthropy—aligning financial resources with values. Her involvement with Temple Israel and the Tri-Faith Initiative exemplifies fusing financial stewardship and social responsibility. Through her Donor Advised Fund and her working partnership with Nathan, she supports not just the operational needs of these organizations but also special projects and initiatives that resonate with her passion for social justice and humanitarian causes.

“I don’t have all the answers, but with the resources and skilled team members here at the Community Foundation, I’m able to get a broader sense of what organizations locally and nationally are working on specific issues in a meaningful way”, Nathan said. “That is our value proposition at OCF. We can provide a level of service that national providers can’t. Sally knows that she can always call me, and I can help her make a grant that makes an impact.”

Sally’s philanthropy journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, empathy, and strategic giving. As Sally and Nathan continue their partnership, they embody the spirit of giving back and making a difference in their community and beyond.

The post Kaplan makes an impact locally and worldwide with support from Omaha Community Foundation appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

“Sunni is a dynamic, proven leader with a true passion for serving the people of Iowa. Her previous experience leading the Story County Community Foundation will help us evolve the work in the nine counties we serve. Her experience working on our Donor Services team translates well for the focus needed to build relationships and make community connections,” said Donna Kush, President and CEO of the Omaha Community Foundation.

In her new role, Kamp will lead the Foundations’ grantmaking and fundraising efforts as well as manage each county’s State of Iowa County Endowment Fund Program. The Foundations manage more than $26.5 million in assets, including approximately $24.9 million in endowed assets. They have granted more than $2.1 million so far in 2022.

“As an Iowa native, I am humbled to be assuming this position and excited to expand on the outstanding work the Foundations have done in our affiliate counties,” Kamp said. “Working with and serving communities in Southwest Iowa excites me, and I look forward to building upon the success and philanthropic impact these communities have made.”

Kamp, who joined the Omaha Community Foundation in 2021, holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master’s Degree from Drake University.

She is taking over the Director role from Stacey Goodman, who is leaving at the end of the year for an opportunity outside the organization.

About the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa
The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa serve to benefit the communities and residents of nine counties in Southwest Iowa: Audubon, Cass, Crawford, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page and Shelby Counties. With generous donations from fundholders, they support organizations working to improve the quality of life in each county.

The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa receive funds each year from the State of Iowa County Endowment Fund Program. These funds are distributed via grants to support the needs and opportunities in the areas of arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and historic preservation.

Learn more at SWIowaFoundations.org

The post Kamp to lead the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Megan

Megan Stubenhofer-Barrett

Megan joins our leadership team as the Director of Marketing & Communications. She is an experienced and creative communications professional who is passionate about sharing compelling stories. Her work experience includes more than 10 years at a regional newspaper in various roles in both print and digital, including leading the online news, marketing, and digital development teams. She also spent five years in government communications, where she developed and executed strategic communication plans, served as the public information officer, and oversaw community engagement projects.

She was drawn to the Omaha Community Foundation because of our commitment to strengthening the community she calls home. Though much of her free time is claimed by her children’s activities—she’s a Scout leader, band parent, and gymnastics cheering section—whenever possible, you’ll find her outside exploring nature or taking a long evening walk. She also loves a good book, a good meal, and a very large cup of coffee.

Jody

Jody Skinner

Jody joins our finance team as an Accounting Coordinator. Florida born and raised, Jody recently moved with her husband and son to Omaha this summer. She has always worked in accounting, most recently at a tractor dealership in Ocala, Florida. She loves to read when has a moment to herself. Most of her time is spent with her family, and they enjoy watching movies and going to concerts. They’re also foodies and looking forward to exploring Omaha’s restaurant scene.

Michelle

Michelle Swanger

Michelle joins our finance team as a Controller. Michelle has loved accounting since high school and followed her passion. She sees her fascination with numbers as a constant challenge in an ever-growing field. This comes through in her hobbies, too. Michelle is a quilter, which requires measurements and math. Getting together with friends to laugh and sew is an added bonus.

The post Meet our new team members appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Please join us in welcoming Katie French McGill and Nicole Murry.

Katie French McGill

Katie

Katie joins the Donor Services team as our new Gift Acceptance Manager. She brings a wealth of experience having practiced as an estate planning attorney for nine years at Lamson Dugan & Murray Law Firm in Omaha. Originally from Milwaukee, Katie attended Creighton University and settled in the Dundee neighborhood.

Want to know the ins and outs of home remodeling? Katie has plenty of experience. She lives in a 90-year-old home that she and her husband painstakingly restored. She’s particularly proud of the original bright yellow and powder blue art deco tiles in both bathrooms.

When she’s not living in a real-life episode of This Old House, Katie likes to clear her head with long walks with her two dogs in Memorial Park.

Nicole Murry

Nicole

Nicole joins the leadership team as our Director of Human Resources & Administration. She has over 20 years of experience in human resource management, mainly in healthcare and higher education. She currently serves as a co-chair and board member at the Human Resource Association of the Midlands. Born and raised in Omaha, she can’t imagine raising her kids anywhere else.

In her free time, she likes walking or biking on Omaha’s many trails, taking time to reflect and enjoy nature. She’s passionate about creating opportunity and supporting the next generation.

Our team is here to make philanthropy as simple and meaningful as possible—growing good, together.

The post Meet Our New Team Members appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

As the Omaha Community Foundation celebrates its 40th anniversary, we are excited to recognize new milestones and share our new look, new plans, and new messaging with the community.

For most people turning 40 is often a time of reflection on what we’ve done the last four decades and how we’ll plan to spend the decades ahead. Most also feel they’ve hit their stride, know more about themselves, and have greater confidence in their abilities and place in the world. You stop sweating the small stuff and instead channel that energy into more outward focus on the needs of others.

As the Omaha Community Foundation celebrates 40 years this month, our organization is experiencing a similar evolution. We have had a tremendous history of growth and are energized to take on the ever changing future role we need to play in our community. We are more focused than ever on what it means to be a Community Foundation. We are constantly responding to our community’s most pressing needs, identifying the gaps, and recognizing our role in filling those gaps.

When the pandemic hit, we immediately implemented our Response Fund, introduced partner grantmaking, and distributed CARES Act grants. As the organization rose to meet our community’s needs, we realized we were evolving as an organization. It was time to examine ourselves from all angles—our strategy, our internal infrastructure, and our identity—in order to set the appropriate framework for our future.

Strategic Plan. We launched a new strategic plan, starting with stakeholder interviews. We wanted to validate assumptions and open our eyes to new opportunities. Stakeholders told us they see us as a partner and facilitator of philanthropy, and they thought OCF should be more of a connector and convener. We used this feedback to map out a plan that would position us for responsive growth.

New brand. As we saw themes emerge from our strategic plan, we quickly realized it was time to revisit our identity—both visually and in our messaging. We used stakeholder feedback to reveal and validate. We heard comments about our perceived strengths and weaknesses. We concluded that, like our favorite old pair of jeans, it was time to refresh our look. And, it was time to modify our message to better reflect the organization we had and intend to become.

Our new brand is more than a new logo—it represents our organization’s essence. It respects our past while positioning ourselves for growth. It reflects our commitment to equity in our community. It’s bold yet approachable. With vivid colors, strategic language, and a reinforced focus on inclusivity, the new brand amplifies our mission to maximize the power of philanthropy to strengthen our community.

Conducting our strategic plan and creating a new brand in tandem proved beneficial far beyond our original projections. While it was challenging, I’m immensely proud of our team for diving in head-first, establishing priorities, and digging deep to discover our current and future place in our community.

Today, we launch the culmination of all of this great work by revealing our new brand. Our new tagline—Growing Good, Together—also highlights a critical part of this work. Moving forward, we cannot do this important work without your support. We want your input. We need to know how we can help. As we celebrate our 40-year milestone, we’re more committed than ever to working with all of you to meet our community’s needs together.

Let us know your thoughts on our new plan, new look and new message. We hope that you see and share the energy and enthusiasm our team feels about turning 40—a time of reflection, renewal and refocus.

Growing good, together.

The post A Refreshed Look & Outlook appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

We also care for, support, and inspire one another and members of our community in all that we do. This includes using language that individuals and communities use to describe themselves, including gender inclusive pronouns.

As a staff, we have developed a primer below to help further explain and facilitate the understanding of gender inclusiveness, both in the workplace and our greater community.

What is a pronoun?

In the English language, we use pronouns every day often without even noticing.  A pronoun is a substitute for a noun or a noun phrase and can be used to reference a person or thing, such as “she” or “they”. Personal pronouns (sometimes referred to as gender pronouns) refer to people and can imply a gender identity. Some personal pronouns you may or may not be familiar with include: she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, ze/hir/hirs, etc. This list is not exhaustive but provides a sampling. A gender inclusive pronoun does not associate a particular gender with the individual who is being discussed.

What is gender identity?

Gender identity is defined as one’s personal sense of one’s own gender. Gender can correlate with the sex assigned at birth or it can differ. When a person describes another individual using a personal pronoun, it can mean the person is interpreting the other individual’s gender based on their appearance, expression or name. This assumption may be incorrect, thereby ‘misgendering’ or calling a person by the wrong gender pronoun. At OCF, we strive to create an environment where gender identity and pronouns are respected by all members of our community.

What if I make a mistake or don’t know someone’s pronouns?

We are all human. If you make a mistake, briefly apologize, correct yourself and move on. If you do not know someone’s pronoun, and you are not sure how to refer to the person, simply address them by their name. It can be harmful to make assumptions about people based on factors like appearance, background, speech, style, and more. Asking questions can help show that instead of assuming, you’re ready to learn. And if you ask us questions, we promise to not judge but rather continue on this learning journey together.

To help others know their pronouns, some OCF employees have chosen to adopt the following practices:

• Including pronouns in their email signature lines.
• Communicating their pronouns during meeting introductions

How do I learn more?

To learn more about pronoun usage, visit:

• What are Gender Pronouns? Why Do They Matter? | Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (nih.gov)
• Resources on Personal Pronouns
• Misgendering: What is it and Why is it Harmful? (healthline.com)

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