Deb Cornelius '91

Deb Cornelius, CFRE, has a diverse work experience in various nonprofit organizations. Deb currently serves as the Executive Director at the West Chester University Foundation, a role they have held since 2023. Prior to this, Deb worked as the Executive Director, Interim, and Chief Development Officer for the same organization from 2022 to 2023. Deb has also served as the Senior Director of Development and Associate Director of Development & Campaign Director at the West Chester University Foundation.

Before joining the West Chester University Foundation, Deb worked at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine as the Director of Mission Advancement. In this role, they were responsible for overseeing all aspects of fundraising, including annual campaigns, endowment, capital campaigns, benefit events, sponsorships, and corporate support. Deb raised over $2 million dollars annually and provided scholarships and financial assistance to more than 20,000 individuals across Chester County.

Deb also held the position of Director of Corporate Partnerships and Events at the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley from 2010 to 2012. Prior to that, they worked as the Director of Outreach and Education at the Melanoma International Foundation, where they supported various aspects of education and fundraising, including planning and executing special events nationwide and creating webinars and seminars in corporate environments.

Overall, Deb Cornelius has a strong background in nonprofit development and has successfully raised funds and managed various fundraising initiatives throughout their career.

Deb Cornelius, CFRE, earned a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Teaching from West Chester University of Pennsylvania in 1992. Prior to that, they attended the University of Maryland from 1987 to 1990. No specific degree or field of study was mentioned.