Associate Vice President, Philanthropic Advising, Phoenix Children's Foundation

Award-Winning Gift Planning Professional, Innovative Leader, and Non-Profit Operations Specialist

Nicola Lawrence is an award-winning gift planning professional, known for her innovative leadership and extensive experience in transforming non-profit organizations. Her career, spanning over 25 years and four continents, has consistently showcased her expertise in philanthropy, from billion-dollar campaigns to daily fundraising initiatives. Nicola's educational background includes degrees from prestigious institutions in both the United Kingdom and the United States, specializing in philanthropic advising and non-profit leadership.

Nicola holds two undergraduate degrees in Business and Finance from Wigan and Leigh College, and International Non-Profit Management from the University of Leicester. She also earned a postgraduate diploma in Missional Leadership from York St. John University, an MSc in Non-Profit Leadership and Innovation, and an MA in Financial Planning from the American College of Financial Services. Currently, she is pursuing a DPhil at the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana University.

With a remarkable ability to revitalize underperforming planned gift programs, Nicola has unlocked significant revenue potential through deferred and asset-based giving. Her innovative strategies and expertise in philanthropic leadership have garnered awards and driven the success of the organizations she serves. Nicola excels in orchestrating and coaching teams to maximize opportunities and support each donors' unique needs.

Beyond gift planning, Nicola possesses a profound understanding of non-profit operations. She effectively manages and oversees the complex workings of non-profit organizations, ensuring sustained success through risk mitigation, adherence to legislation, and strategic advancement. Her commitment to ethical practices and transformative impact has earned her respect throughout the sector.

Nicola serves on the boards of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners and the Arizona Charitable Gift Planners, demonstrating her dedication to advancing the profession. A sought-after conference speaker, she shares her insights with audiences nationwide, promoting integrated approaches to charitable gift planning.

Nicola's passion for philanthropy extends to her personal life. She has volunteered as a foster parent for over a decade, adopted two children, and served as president of the East Texas Coalition for Foster and Adoptive Parents, advocating for legislative support. Along with her biological, step, and foster children, Nicola is proud to have provided a loving home to 18 young people who call her "Momma."

Nicola Lawrence's strategic acumen, innovative approaches, and deep commitment to philanthropy have made her a trusted expert and respected leader in the field of charitable gift planning.