What the Fundraising 286: From Service to Fundraising: Lessons in Fear, Focus, and Action with Trish Davis
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Mar 10, 2026 Trish Davis, Vice President of Major Gifts and Planned Giving at Susan G. Komen and Air Force veteran turned longtime volunteer. She discusses how military skills shape nonprofit leadership. She talks about managing fear, staying present with donors, choosing action over perfection, celebrating small wins, and building a gratitude-driven fundraising culture.
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Volunteer Work Launched Her Fundraising Career
- Trish transitioned from military service to fundraising after volunteering with her mother's nonprofit and while in school.
- Her first paid role came directly from volunteer work where she was already raising money naturally, which launched her career.
Military Conditioning Creates Useful Nimbleness
- Military service trained Trish to be nimble and act without hesitation during change, which she applies to nonprofit leadership.
- Serving during wartime gave perspective that helps her face daily organizational uncertainty without paralysis.
Compartmentalize Fear And Focus On Mission
- Compartmentalize fear and stay focused on mission-critical actions so fear doesn't stop progress.
- Trish refuses to let fear slow donor work because pausing would harm patients and fundraising outcomes.