Katerina Lessard

Katerina Lessard, CFRE, currently serves as the Senior Director of Development for the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association, focusing on philanthropy for UW Extension and advancing UW-Madison's mission. With extensive experience in development roles, Katerina has successfully led philanthropic strategies for the Center for Healthy Minds, cultivating a major gifts portfolio that has secured approximately $5 million annually. Previous positions include Director of Development for both the Center for Healthy Minds and Healthy Minds Innovations, where Katerina significantly increased donor engagement and implemented effective stewardship practices. Katerina's background includes roles in performing arts organizations such as the Joffrey Ballet and Chicago Dancers United, contributing to program management and fundraising efforts. Katerina holds an MBA in Arts Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BS in Dance and Sociology from Northwestern University.