Featured in August:
	Eleanor Brtva, CFRE Alexandria, VA
Position Responsibilities:
Organization’s purpose:
Career Highlights:
The opportunity to work at the American Diabetes Association (ADA) with the most gifted boss, development professionals, scientific and medical staff, and volunteers in the world. l The joy of securing a gift over $20,000,000 for research projects and knowing some of the most generous, devoted philanthropists in the world. l The honor of receiving my CFRE and MPH and continuing to learn more each day from my colleagues and staff. l The humbling experience of being elected to the Board of Directors of the Art League of Alexandria and helping them raise money for the art community.
Q & A:
How many years have you been a development professional?
18 glorious years of service!
What led you to being a development professional?
In 1989 I answered an ad for an administrative assistant working for a program of the archdiocese of Miami. The ad said, “crisis management experience a plus” which was a volunteer role I had previously. Little did I know it was for a very active development office and I was mentored by an exceptional woman, Diane Thompson. I will be ever grateful for her leadership, expertise, and coaching.
How does your faith guide you in your work?
Every morning is greeted with devotionals from Max Lucado and John Maxwell. Every success is because of Jesus Christ. Every trial and rejection, God will get you through. I used to pray to reach the financial goal of the organization and one day I had an epiphany—my prayer needs to be “Heavenly Father, help me rid your earthly world of diabetes.” I’m also proud that some of us at the ADA have devoted 10 minutes each month to gather and pray for people with diabetes, their caregivers, our organization, and our staff. It’s a great way to witness.
What has been the biggest challenge for you as a development professional?
Encouraging staff, yet making decisions for the betterment of the organization. I’m still challenged by instilling the word “philanthropy” in a culture that has been engulfed in special events and “sales.” I have hope every day though.
What excites you about your position?
I have the joy in meeting the most generous people from all walks of life - the “Millionaire Next Door,” as the book, The Seven Faces of Philanthropy, says. I have the joy of meeting a child or adult with diabetes almost every week. Their challenge inspires and excites me every day.
What is a favorite book you have read recently and why?
I love reading—everything and anything. A trip each week to the library helps continuous learning. One of my favorite books is Jesus CEO by Laurie Beth Jones—I read it over and over. Any book by Max Lucado or John Maxwell inspires me to put issues of our profession in perspective.
What three things do you like to do besides working?
Walk and hike with my husband, Roger, and our Great Dane, Marina. Volunteer at Burke Presbyterian Church in Burke, Va., and at The Art League in Alexandria, Va. The arts: printmaking, photography, and drawing.
What is the most essential quality of a good development professional?
The ability to listen to a donor, strategize, and then execute the plan and hear “yes, I’ll help.”
Who has been a mentor for you and why?
My first mentor, Diane Thompson, taught me about the development field and helped me understand special events and the cultivation process. Arnie Lack, Nancy Caudillo, and Andy Tiebert from Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) each taught me several aspects of resource development—and the art of major and planned giving. I continually am encouraged and coached by my ADA family—staff and volunteers including Vaneeda Bennett, Don Wagner, Cathy Bernstein, and former board member Joe Cook.
How many years have you been a member of ALDE?
I began being involved in ALDE with LSSI in 1993 and despite moving on to other healthcare causes, have recently re-joined.
Describe an ALDE experience that has been particularly noteworthy, fun, uplifting, educational, etc.
My first ALDE conference when I was with LSSI. I still have the materials from it and met some new friends. Just having prayers and devotionals at meetings and conferences and being able to witness is nourishing to my soul and I will always encourage others to join!