Brenda Asare joined Alford Group in 2004 and assumed the role of President & CEO in 2014. Brenda brings nearly 30 years of management and cross-sector experience and has assisted clients in raising over $2 billion, focusing on campaign execution, strategic planning, corporate partnerships, board leadership development and organizational design.
Prior to joining Alford Group, she was Chief Development Officer with the American Red Cross in Chicago where she led various disaster fundraising efforts raising over $100 million.
Additionally, Brenda is 2nd Vice Chair of the Giving Institute and serves as a board member for numerous philanthropic organizations. Brenda is a frequent speaker on the intersection of diversity and philanthropy and has mentored many talented development professionals. In 2019, Brenda was recognized as Crain’s Notable Minorities in Consulting for her remarkable work in the nonprofit sector.
Select Clients
The YWCA USA
Presbyterian Church of the USA
The Chicago Community Trust
The Art Institute of Chicago
Greater Milwaukee Community Foundation
Madison Community Foundation
NorthShore University Health System Foundation
Habitat for Humanity
Education & Credentials
MBA Marketing, Washington University in St. Louis where she received the prestigious Dean’s Service Award
B.S. Business, University of South Carolina
Featured Resources
ABC Scenario Planning: Strengthening Resilience in Uncertain Times Webinar
Celebrating Black History-Makers: Interview with Niquole Esters
Giving USA 2024: The Future of Philanthropy
