Brenda B. Asare

President & CEO

Pronouns: she/her/hers
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“What an exciting time for the social impact sector to reimagine and advance new possibilities for the greater good of the world.”

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 currently the 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. Brenda was recognized as Crain’s Notable Minorities in Consulting in 2019 and Crain’s Notable Black Leaders and Executives in 2020 for her remarkable work in the nonprofit sector.

Fun Fact: Brenda is a “quotes” collector. Her favorite is “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style.” – Maya Angelou

Select Clients:

  • Chicago Community Trust
  • YWCA USA
  • Presbyterian Church of USA
  • Conservation International
  • Cubs Charities of the Chicago Cubs
  • NorthShore University HealthSystem Foundation
  • William Blair & Company
  • Art Institute of Chicago

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