Brenda Jacobson

Brenda Jacobson, MA, CFRE, has a diverse work experience in the field of fundraising and development. Brenda is currently the Director of Foundation Operations at CentraCare, a position they have held since March 2022. Prior to this, they served as the Advancement Director at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota from September 2017 to March 2022.

From 2014 to 2017, Brenda worked as a Senior Development Officer at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University. In this role, they were responsible for raising funds for the annual operating budget, as well as capital and endowment projects. Brenda also played a key role in cultivating and soliciting major gifts.

Before joining the College of Saint Benedict, Brenda worked as the Director of Advancement at Saint John's Preparatory School from May 2008 to October 2014. In this executive position, they had authority and responsibility for all advancement functions, including leadership gifts, annual fund, and deferred giving programs.

Brenda's earlier experiences include serving as the Director of Communications at the Sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict from May 2006 to May 2008. Brenda also held the position of Director of Admissions and Development at Holy Trinity School in Winsted, MN, from May 2005 to May 2006.

Prior to that, Brenda worked as the Vice President of Development at the Girl Scout Council of Greater Minneapolis from May 2001 to May 2005. Brenda began their career in development as the Director of Development at the Girl Scout Council of Land of Lakes, where they served from 1997 to 2001.

Overall, Brenda Jacobson has demonstrated their expertise in fundraising and development through their various roles and accomplishments throughout their career.

Brenda Jacobson, MA, CFRE has a diverse education history. Brenda earned their Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Philanthropy and Development from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota in 2015. Prior to that, they attended St. Cloud State University from 1988 to 2012, where they obtained a BES degree in Organizational Management and English. Brenda's education started at Eden Valley-Watkins High School, where they completed their College Prep studies from 1984 to 1988. In addition to their academic achievements, Brenda holds a CFRE certification from CFRE International, which they obtained in December 2018.