About Us

CEO

Vicki Pugh is a powerhouse in the world of philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Through a dynamic fundraising career, she has led teams that have raised millions and millions of dollars for mission-driven organizations in Florida and New York City — including the New York City Opera, Carnegie Hall, Ballet Florida, Palm Beach Atlantic University, YMCA, and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

Vicki is known not just for raising funds, but for building strong alliances in the philanthropic community. From board development and strategic planning to major gifts, capital campaigns, and donor engagement, she brings unmatched expertise and infectious passion to every partnership. As CEO of Advancement Experts, she helps nonprofits grow stronger, smarter, and more sustainable. Vicki also works with families to establish generational and legacy impact on their communities. 

An acclaimed educator, speaker, and trainer, Vicki is on the faculty of The Fund Raising School at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, where she trains the fundraising professionals in leadership, major gifts, capital campaigns, and the fundamentals of fundraising. She is a sought-after speaker, often appearing in front of audiences at Association of Fundraising Professionals meetings and conferences and presentations at Nonprofits First. She holds both CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) and CAP (Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy) credentials.

Senior Consultant

Shawn Kirschner is a passionate and experienced philanthropic leader dedicated to helping individuals and families translate their enthusiasm for giving into meaningful, intentional action. She brings together creativity, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of donor engagement to create impactful and rewarding philanthropic experiences. Shawn is driven by a commitment to strengthening the philanthropic community and empowering others to give in ways that reflect their values and leave a lasting legacy.

With nearly 15 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, Shawn has developed a strong expertise in working with high-capacity donors seeking clarity, structure, and purpose in their giving. She excels at building trusted relationships and guiding donors toward thoughtful, values-driven philanthropy for themselves and future generations. Her professional background includes roles with the Polo Ralph Lauren Foundation, Donna Karan’s Urban Zen Foundation, Vail Valley Foundation, Roundup River Ranch, and Young Life Africa/Middle East.

Senior Consultant

Cathy Brown is a nonprofit strategist, educator, and facilitator who specializes in transforming ideas into sustainable organizations, programs, and leadership initiatives. As Principal of Cathy Brown Philanthropy LLC, she partners with nonprofit organizations, foundations, and community leaders to strengthen fundraising strategy, leadership development, career pathways, board engagement and effectiveness, facilitation, and organizational capacity.

Cathy serves as adjunct faculty for The Fund Raising School at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, where she teaches fundraising and nonprofit leadership. She brings more than 30 years of experience spanning philanthropy, nonprofit management, adult learning, workforce development, and community leadership.

Throughout her career, Cathy has been drawn to opportunities to build something new. Most recently, she launched and led the Broward Center for Nonprofit Excellence at the Community Foundation of Broward, transforming an emerging vision into a regional resource that strengthens nonprofit leadership, financial sustainability, governance, succession planning, and organizational effectiveness across South Florida.

Earlier, Cathy became The Fund Raising School's first full-time faculty member, helping establish a new model for curriculum development and instructional leadership while teaching fundraising professionals nationwide. She also led the creation of Hendricks College Network, guiding the organization from concept and incorporation through sustained community impact, connecting more than 17,000 adults with higher education and workforce opportunities.

Cathy holds a Master of Arts in Education and a Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University, along with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Hanover College. She holds an MA as well as an Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) and a Certified Fund Raising Manager (CFRM).

An active volunteer leader, Cathy currently serves as Board Chair of Gilda's Club South Florida.

Whether teaching, consulting, or facilitating, Cathy is passionate about helping organizations build the people, systems, and strategies that allow great ideas to become lasting community impact.

Marketing Consultant

Maggie Thomas is a branding and marketing professional with over a decade of experience across diverse marketing sectors. After graduating from Ball State University, Maggie started her career journey in Seattle, Washington, where she has worked with both startups and well-established brands. Her multifaceted skill set includes website development and management, graphic design, print, and social media advertising, as well as the creation and optimization of Google ad portfolios.

Maggie has consistently helped businesses not only with a multitude of graphic design assets but also by delivering monthly advertising returns on investment (ROI) exceeding 500%.

Maggie discovered her passion for philanthropic endeavors early in life and has dedicated her time to volunteering her marketing expertise. She also prioritizes fundraising and philanthropic outreach programs within the community for every business.

Currently, Maggie serves as a consultant based in greater Philadelphia, PA, where she leverages her expertise as a brand development specialist and graphic designer. She takes pride in collaborating with clients and is always eager to discuss and strategize new projects.