Lifelong Learning: Mallory ReeseStaff Profile

WESTMORELAND COUNTY NATIVE MALLORY REESE has built a career that merges her appetite for lifelong learning, business and fundraising to help others fulfill their philanthropic passions. Her own passion for the work serves her well in her position as the development and donor services officer at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County.

Even as a student at St. Vincent College, Reese was determined to shape her education according to the interrelationships she saw emerging in the sectors of business, information technology and education. After changing her major three times, Reese’s professors introduced her to a new curriculum that combined those fields. At the time, only she and another student enrolled in the program. She graduated in 2010 with a degree in business education information technology, a K–12 teaching certificate, and enough business credits to enter the field of corporate training.

After graduation, Reese landed a position as the sole fundraiser at Valley School of Ligonier, where she supported its mission of educational excellence and soon became director of development. She earned her master’s degree from St. Vincent in educational media and technology. In 2016, Reese left Valley School to join the staff of the Diocese of Greensburg to raise funds for its Catholic schools. The Diocese soon tapped her to reinvigorate the advancement program at Greensburg Central Catholic High School.

When a position opened at the Foundation last year, Reese understood that it was an opportunity to improve lives on a much greater scale.

At CFWC, Reese combines her love of teaching, her business background and her fundraising savvy to help donors discover their philanthropic interests and goals. She uses her knowledge of different learning styles to guide donors and build relationships in the larger community. The most important part of her job, says Reese, “is to listen carefully to people’s stories and understand what is most important to them in terms of how they want to contribute to the community around them.” One area that is especially rewarding, she says, is helping families establish funds that inspire the younger generation to give back, particularly when they memorialize loved ones.

“Every day, I am able to help our donors make meaning out of circumstances that are often extremely difficult,” says Reese. “It’s my responsibility to create a structure for them to give back. Our donors give me the opportunity to be a part of something that has so much impact on a larger population and an infinite amount of potential. I feel so lucky to have found the Foundation, and I’m grateful for all of the experiences that have led me to it.”

Original story appeared in the Forum Quarterly Spring 2019.