Mary Sumners

A Kennari team member since 2014, Mary oversees the company’s consulting services, ensuring that the team and their clients have the resources they need to be successful together. She also provides consulting services to clients seeking support for campaigns, major gifts, executive coaching, and board development.

The Skillset

Mary has a knack for organizational strategy and a sharp eye for building the right project focus for an organization's mission and sustainability. She's also a natural at navigating the "human" side of fundraising: empowering boards to take ownership of their composition and governance.

The Motivation

Mary loves to see clients hit their goals. Because she knows how hard fundraisers and executive directors work, she loves when they experience big moments - such as a new major gift - not just for the win, but because it helps keep them motivated to stay focused on the mission.

The Impact

Mary finds it rewarding when she sees organizations still implementing strategies and processes that Kennari created for them, long after their contract is done. She is also a mentor for AFP West Michigan, lending guidance and resources to other fundraising professionals.

The Rest of the Story

Outside of work, Mary is her kids' biggest fan at all their events and a regular in the audience at the ballet and local theatre. Music is a huge part of her life - whether she's singing with family or performing with her band - and she’s always up for a day on the golf course.