Donna Murray-Brown
Donna Murray-Brown is a nationally recognized and proven leader in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, known for her strategic vision, inclusive leadership, and commitment to social impact. A sought-after speaker, she most recently served as the inaugural Vice President of Strategy and Development at the National Council of Nonprofits, leading initiatives to strengthen nonprofits nationwide.
With over 25 years of experience, Donna transitioned to nonprofit leadership in 2009 after a 20-year banking career, including as Vice President and CRA Director at Charter One Bank. As President and CEO of the Michigan Nonprofit Association from 2013 to 2022, she led equity-focused initiatives, including Michigan’s Census 2020 effort and COVID-19 response programs.
Donna’s impactful work earned her recognition on the NonProfit Times Power & Influence Top 50 twice, Crain’s Detroit Business Most Influential Women in 2021, and a Nonprofit HR 2024 Social Impact Women to Watch. She serves on multiple boards, including Candid and the McGregor Fund, and continues to offer expertise in organizational development and strategic planning.
Donna holds a Master’s in Community Development from the University of Detroit Mercy and a BS in Business Administration from Central State University. She resides in Louisville, Kentucky.
Nonprofits are facing unprecedented workforce challenges due to economic uncertainty, rising operational costs, and increasing demand for services. This session will examine how coordinated advocacy can drive systemic solutions to inequitable wages, housing instability, healthcare access, and the overall sustainability of nonprofit employment.
Panelists will discuss strategies for advancing workforce protections, securing funding for equitable pay, and strengthening sector-wide advocacy coalitions. The conversation will focus on how nonprofits can advocate for structural change while ensuring organizational sustainability, helping leaders retain and protect talent during a time of instability.
Please choose one session per 10:45am time slot.
Moderator: Gloria Ramón, Chief Strategy Officer, TSNE
Panel: Donna Murray-Brown, Consultant, DMB Coaching and Consulting, and Bill Yelenak, President & CEO, Providers’ Council
Speakers: Donna Murray-Brown, Bill Yelenak, Gloria Ramón
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