Kay Sprinkel Grace Kay understands the challenges of 21st-century philanthropy as well as its opportunities and brings her experience from working with countless non-profit organizations to bear on the current issues affecting philanthropy, donor development, fundraising, outreach, message strategy and volunteerism. As principal of her own organization since 1989, her clients include public media, hospitals, universities, arts and cultural organizations, environment and social justice organizations, churches and education, as well as community-based services. A goal of her consulting is to mentor and strengthen leaders within organizations to grow their success while achieving their immediate goals.
Kay has spoken at numerous conferences across the United States and worldwide. Her BA and MA are from Stanford University, where she is a recipient of their highest award for volunteer service, The Gold Spike. Professionally, she is a recipient of the Henry A. Rosso Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Ethical Fundraising (2013) from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, the AFP Golden Gate Chapter Lifetime Achievement Award (2020), and the AFP Global Fundraising Professional of the Year Award (2020).
She is the author of seven books related to philanthropic practices and board engagement: Beyond Fundraising (1997 and 2005, Wiley); High Impact Philanthropy (2001, co-author Alan Wendroff, Wiley); Over Goal! (2005, Emerson & Church); The Ultimate Board Member’s Book, (Third Edition, Revised 2013, Emerson & Church); The Busy Volunteer’s Guide to Fundraising (Revised 2009, Emerson & Church); The AAA Way to Fundraising Success: Maximizing Involvement, Maximizing Results, (2009, Whit Press of Seattle and Jackson Hole); Transform Your Board Into a Fundraising Force (2019, Emerson & Church).
She serves on the Advisory Board of the Czech Fundraising Center, Prague, Czech Republic, and the governing boards of Grace Cathedral and Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra & Chorale, San Francisco. She lives in San Francisco.