Patricia O’Connor wins Spirit of Philanthropy Award from Association of Fundraising Professionals

Patricia O'Connor, director of annual giving at Fresno Pacific University, is one of the Association of Fundraising Professional's Spirit of Philanthropy Honorees for 2024. She was chosen for her all-around collaboration with university staff and hard work developing the Rock Your Socks for Students campaign.

"I've had the honor of working with Patricia for many years now and have seen how dedicated she is to every campaign she does. I'm so proud of her for receiving this honor," said Liz Garvin, vice president for advancement and executive director of the FPU Foundation.

At FPU, O'Connor's work includes designing and managing a comprehensive annual giving program, overseeing the President's Circle and leading university Giving Tuesday efforts. President's Circle members are honored donors who provide vital support by contributing at least $1,000 a year; praying regularly for students, faculty and staff; encouraging students to attend and friends to support FPU; attending or hosting events; and serving on boards and committees. Giving Tuesday is a national day of philanthropy that takes place on December 3, 2024.

O'Connor has broad fundraising experience in higher education and in the Valley. Before coming to FPU in December 2024, she served as director of annual giving at California State University, Fresno, and United States Air Force Academy Endowment, Colorado Springs, CO. She was also executive director of advancement services and advancement operations manager at the University of California, Merced. In her decade at Fresno State, giving revenue increased from $256,080 to $1,218,677 and the number of annual donors increased from 1,780 to 5,034 in five years.

Fresno's National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon will be 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 12, at Fort Washington Golf & Country Club, 10272 N. Millbrook Ave. Fresno.

The Association of Fundraising Professionals California Capital Chapter, founded in 1985, promotes philanthropy in the Sacramento, Central Valley and Sierra Foothills regions through professional development, education and outreach. It has more than 150 members in development and related fields.

Past winners with FPU connections

AFP has also recognized a number of other FPU donors, volunteers and current and former staff and faculty:

Outstanding Fundraising Professional: Karin Chao-Bushoven, director of major gifts, 2016; Linda Calandra, director of annual giving, 2011; Mark Deffenbacher, executive director of the FPU Foundation, 2005; Joan Minasian, director of annual giving, 2003; and Bud Dickerson, director of major gifts, 2001.

Outstanding Philanthropic Organization: Leon S. Peters Foundation, 1989.

Outstanding Philanthropist: Bill and Linda Smittcamp, 2014; Ted and Joyce Smith, 2012; Nadene and Marvin Steinert, 2011; Al and Dottie Warkentine, 2006; Larry A. Shehadey, 2003; Coke and James Hollowell, 1995; William M. Lyles, 1992; and Earl Smittcamp, 1991.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Scott and Deborah Leonard and Larry and Paula Warkentine, both 2009.

Distinguished Achievement Award: Bob Croft, SPIRIT 89.9 Radio, 2012; and Arthur J. Wiebe, 2002.

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