YWCA adds CAC’s Hefner as chief development officer

YWCA Greater Cincinnati hired Carolyn Hefner as its chief development officer, bringing the longtime Cincinnati nonprofit fundraising leader on to oversee the organization’s philanthropic strategy.

Hefner will lead major gifts, corporate partnerships, foundation relations, annual giving, special events and donor engagement to support the YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

She has more than a decade in nonprofit leadership. Most recently, Hefner served as chief of external affairs at the Contemporary Arts Center, where she led development, marketing and communications. She previously held development leadership roles at Mayerson Academy and Camp Joy, as well as positions with Cincinnati Museum Center and Music Resource Center.

Hefner holds a graduate certificate in museum studies and nonprofit management and a bachelor’s degree in art history from the University of Cincinnati.

“Carolyn is a proven leader who understands how to connect mission with community investment,” said Rickell Howard Smith, president and CEO of YWCA Greater Cincinnati. “Her experience building sustainable fundraising programs, cultivating transformational donor relationships, and working alongside boards and executive leadership teams will be invaluable as we continue to grow our impact and serve more women and families throughout our region.”