Jennifer Palan
About Jennifer Palan
Jennifer Palan serves as the Director of Principal Gifts at Harvard Business School, where she specializes in securing significant donations ranging from $100K to $10M. With extensive experience in fundraising and development across various educational and healthcare organizations, she excels in managing teams and developing effective strategies.
Current Role at Harvard Business School
Jennifer Palan serves as the Director of Principal Gifts at Harvard Business School, a position she has held since 2023. In this role, she focuses on securing significant financial contributions, managing relationships with major donors, and developing strategies to enhance fundraising efforts. Her expertise includes closing gifts ranging from $100K to $10M, demonstrating her capability in high-stakes fundraising environments.
Previous Experience in Fundraising
Prior to her current role, Jennifer Palan held various positions in fundraising and development across several prestigious institutions. She worked as the Senior Associate Director of Major Gifts at Boston College from 2019 to 2022, and as the Director of Development at Hebrew SeniorLife from 2014 to 2018. Her experience also includes roles at MIT and Boston College Carroll School of Management, where she developed and implemented effective fundraising strategies.
Educational Background
Jennifer Palan earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and Business from American University. This educational foundation has equipped her with the skills necessary for effective communication and relationship management within the fundraising sector.
Expertise in Fundraising Strategies
Jennifer Palan possesses a comprehensive skill set in fundraising, including portfolio management, major gift fundraising, and capital campaigns. She has a proven track record of defining and implementing effective fundraising strategies, motivating teams, and managing senior leadership on development strategies. Her ability to translate complex information to diverse audiences enhances her effectiveness in engaging potential donors.
Career Progression and Roles
Throughout her career, Jennifer Palan has held various roles that reflect her growth and expertise in the fundraising field. She began her career as a Sales and Program Coordinator at CCS Fundraising and progressed through positions at GES Exposition Services and MIT, ultimately leading to senior roles at institutions like Harvard University and Boston College. Her diverse experiences have contributed to her comprehensive understanding of fundraising in both educational and healthcare sectors.