Breaking the Mold: What It Means to Be a Non-Traditional Development Professional

So, let’s talk about being a “non-traditional development professional.” I know, I know—it sounds like one of those buzzwords we throw around to sound edgy and forward-thinking. But stick with me because this is about more than just a fancy title. It’s about redefining what it means to be a fundraiser, especially as a Black woman and an introvert in a field that often feels like it was designed by and for extroverted white men.

When you think of a fundraiser, what comes to mind? Probably someone who’s a social butterfly, always working the room, never misses a beat in a conversation, and knows exactly how to charm the dollars out of any donor’s pocket. Now, picture me: an introverted Black woman who would rather have a deep, meaningful conversation with one person than make small talk with twenty. See the disconnect? Fundraising has long been dominated by a specific image—one that doesn’t look like me or operate the way I do. And guess what? That’s not okay, it’s necessary. The world is changing, and the fundraising world needs to catch up.

Let’s get one thing straight: being an introvert isn’t a weakness. It’s a superpower. Introverts are great listeners, and in fundraising listening can make all the difference. We’re not just hearing words; we’re understanding motivations, dreams, and desires. This deep connection builds stronger, more authentic relationships—relationships that last.

Being a Black woman in this field comes with its own set of challenges and strengths. I bring a perspective that is often missing in these spaces. I understand the importance of equity and representation, not just in theory, but in practice. I can connect with diverse communities in ways that someone outside those communities simply cannot. My very presence challenges the status quo and pushes organizations to be more inclusive and equitable.

Here’s where it gets controversial. The fundraising world needs to stop pretending it’s “colorblind” and start acknowledging the unique challenges faced by fundraisers of color. We can’t keep acting like a cookie-cutter approach works for everyone. It doesn’t. The strategies that work for my white counterparts don’t always work for me, and that’s not because I’m doing something wrong. It’s because the game is rigged, and the rules were never written with me in mind.

We need to create spaces where diverse voices are not just heard but valued. This means more than just inviting us to the table—it means giving us the power to change the menu. It means understanding that the future of fundraising is inclusive, equitable, and diverse, and that this future can’t be achieved with the same old, tired tactics.

To all my fellow non-traditional development professionals: keep breaking the mold. Your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. And to the organizations out there: it’s time to evolve. Embrace the change. Hire fundraisers who don’t fit the traditional mold and give them the support they need to thrive.

Being a non-traditional development professional means redefining success on our terms. It means proving that there’s more than one way to build relationships, secure funding, and make an impact. It’s about time the fundraising world caught up with the rest of us.