About Barbara

With more than 30 years of service in the philanthropic sector, Barbara is recognized as a passionate and strategic leader with extensive experience spanning executive leadership, major gifts fundraising, campaign management, and organizational development. Her diverse career has included roles as both executive director and principal gifts officer, giving her a comprehensive understanding of nonprofit operations from multiple perspectives.

Barbara joined Carter Philanthropy as Managing Director in 2015, bringing an enthusiastic approach and deep expertise to campaign development, team building, and board management. That same year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) awarded her the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) credential—the highest certification in the fundraising profession and a distinguished achievement held by only 119 professionals worldwide. In 2022, she was named Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Northwest Ohio Chapter of AFP.

What she enjoys most about her work is the opportunity to guide organizations through transformative growth as they build on their strengths, develop sustainable donor relationships, and achieve their mission through strategic planning, coaching, and training. Her success is rooted in her commitment to helping clients make sense of the process and moving them successfully across the finish line—something she describes as a true joy.

Barbara holds a Master's Degree in Leadership and Organizational Development from the University of Toledo and is an AFP Master Trainer and recognized presenter.