AFP Member Spotlight: R. Wayne Woodson, Ph.D.

AFP Member Spotlights are a recurring series of interviews with AFP members, highlighting the unique individuals and career paths that exist within the fundraising profession. If you know an inspiring fundraising professional who deserves to be featured, please email [email protected].

In this member spotlight, we interviewed R. Wayne Woodson, Ph.D., CEO and principal consultant at Woodson & Associates. He discusses how an unexpected entry into fundraising grew into a purpose-driven career focused on realignment, revenue diversification, and expanding access to knowledge through efforts like the Black Philanthropy Legacy Builders Summit.

Q: How did you start your career in the fundraising profession and what led you there?
A: I started in fundraising 25 years ago by accident. I was working in the education department at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and the grant writer asked me to start helping pull research information for education grants. At the time, I did not even think this was a career option, but I loved assisting. A few years later, I moved to Boston for graduate school and took a position on the capital campaign team at the Massachusetts Historical Society. After that, I was hooked.

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member?
A: I decided to join AFP a few years ago when I chose to focus more of my intentional efforts on my fundraising work. I decided to start preparing for the CFRE credential and wanted to connect with a network of people who understand both the benefits and struggles of the work. It is hard to explain to non-fundraisers how intense, stressful, and empowering fundraising is. When I help an organization raise funds to create or sustain a life-changing program, it provides me with a sense of purpose that motivates me to keep doing the work.

Q: Are you doing anything innovative at your organization (or a past organization) that you think other fundraisers could benefit from?
A: Yes, Woodson & Associates will host the first Black Philanthropy Legacy Builders Summit in July. I created this event to provide insights and education on topics that enhance the stability of organizations that serve and support Black communities. In my work, I noticed that some of these organizations are utilizing amazing, creative systems that work; however, this knowledge is not widely known across the spectrum. The Summit is designed to change that. 

It is my hope that people walk away with new and fresh ideas. As funding continues to decrease, it is critical that organizations consistently ensure their funding models are fresh and innovative. Often, I consult with organizations that have been doing the same things for years, and their methods are no longer effective. It is important that the organizations doing this great work have access to knowledge if they want to improve. I am a successful fundraiser because during my development stages, I had access to experiences and highly impactful industry leaders.

In addition to being a fundraiser myself, I teach fundraising and training courses. Part of my personal mission is to ensure that everyone has access to correct and empowering professional training. There is a cultural component that is embedded in how cultural groups raise funds and support mission work. This Summit is built on that cultural component. Because I understand the importance and impact of this work, I am also writing a book that serves as an educational, real-world guide to philanthropic success for Black people. As the great grandnephew of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the Father of Black History, this is a personal mission to me.

Q: What is your favorite word? (only one word) How has this word influenced or inspired your career?
A: Hmmmm. My favorite word is realignment. It reminds me to consistently assess things to ensure they are impactful and meaningful. Often, people and organizations get into routine and normalcy. This can create stagnation. As a consultant and coach, I work to disrupt any routine that is not meeting and addressing current needs. I believe that constant review and realignment is a necessary part of growth and sustainability.

Q: What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: I am most proud of starting Woodson & Associates. The firm provides services to businesses and nonprofits in transition or crisis. Originally, our work began as an effort to address a frequently observed cultural gap in fundraising, marketing, and enrollment management consulting. Since that time, we have expanded our services and client offerings.

Q: How has being an AFP member and participating in the AFP affinity groups benefited you in your career?
A: Being a member has provided me access to training and thought leadership that has expanded my expertise. It has also expanded my network and professional connections. It is refreshing to talk to other people doing the work who understand the internal workings.  The affinity groups have connected me with peers who have a unique cultural and professional understanding. This helps when you need additional thoughts or insights. It also provides a place to release some of the stress that comes with the work. I am so glad that I joined AFP and the affinity groups.

Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing the nonprofit fundraising profession today?
A: Most people would say the biggest challenge is the ever-increasing need with the seemingly decreasing funding. Although that may be true, I have found that the greatest challenge is that most nonprofits lack a diversified fundraising and revenue-generating structure. This creates major issues when a funding source or stream shifts. With recent federal funding shifts, I have watched organizations downsize, reduce programs and staffing, suspend programming, or cease operations. My goal is always to work with clients to diversify fundraising efforts and explore revenue-generating options.

Q: What advice do you have for other fundraising professionals?
A: My recommendation is that we lead our work with honesty and compassion. Part of our work is to provide accurate guidance, which may be a reality check for those with whom we work. No matter what is going on, we must make sure to focus on our work-life balance, mental health, and self-care. The work is stressful, but we also have to take care of ourselves.