Dzenan Berberovic, M.A., CFRE

Refugee of war. Immigrant. Difference-maker.

Dzenan Berberovic (JE-nahn Bur-bur-oh-vik) is committed to making lives better. Born and raised in war-torn Bosnia, a refugee in Germany for six years, and later an immigrant to the United States, his humble beginnings were a stepping stone that helped shape him into the professional he is today.

Dzenan has the honor of serving Avera as Chief Philanthropy Officer. Inspired by a stranger’s generosity, Dzenan was led to his life’s work: philanthropy.

At Avera, Dzenan serves as the executive sponsor of philanthropy. He leads Avera’s philanthropic agenda to better serve patients, families, residents and employees. Prior to joining Avera, he held increasingly responsible roles at his alma mater, University of South Dakota, where he served as Executive Director for Principal Giving.

Dzenan’s work spans the continuum of philanthropy: annual giving, marketing, special events, donor services, development operations, campaigns, and individual giving programs focused on major, lead and principal-level gifts. He has served and led teams to raise more than $500 million.

Dzenan and his wife, Kelsey, reside in Sioux Falls, SD. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Dakota. He received a graduate degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Philanthropy and Development. Dzenan holds the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Credential.

Dzenan was named the Outstanding Young Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Global. Prior to transitioning to healthcare, Dzenan received the Rising Star Award by the Council for Advancement in Support of Education (CASE). He was named Outstanding Graduate Student at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. The Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP) recognized Dzenan as a 40 Under 40 recipient.

Dzenan is involved in the community and serves on eight regional and national nonprofit boards and committees.