Testimonials
In their words.
Colleagues and clients on what it's like to work with Berna - on legacy programs, campaigns, and the conversations that make them possible.
Working with Berna was transformational for our organization. She designed and launched our first Planned Giving Program, closing a critical strategic gap and positioning us for long-term, sustainable revenue growth. Berna aligned cross-functional teams, developed a clear three-year legacy roadmap, and strengthened internal systems to support future growth. Her training and leadership built confidence across the organization and prepared us for a practical, achievable legacy program.
Berna is a rare force of nature who has the sort of internal locus of control that leads to fundraising and relationship building results that seem superhuman. Berna and I met when she was working at the Textile Museum of Canada as a Fundraising Manager and I was supporting their development of a refreshed annual and major giving strategy. Berna's tenacity and skill for building deep and mission-centered connections with donors was immediately palpable and the ROI demonstrated just how skilled she is in the art and science of fundraising. She is conscientious, organized, strategic, results-oriented, and remembers every special occasion and meaningful date for each and every donor she encounters. She is deeply committed to ongoing professional development and building new skills. Berna is one of those professionals that I would be pleased to collaborate with today, tomorrow or anytime in the future. She is a true asset to any organization she is with.
Working alongside Berna on the Philanthropy Team was a real highlight of my time at Plan Canada. I was continually inspired by her ability to cultivate genuine, trust based relationships with our legacy donors. Berna has a rare gift for seeing each person as an individual first – never just a 'donor.' Her deep commitment to stewardship, listening, and respect was always evident, and she ensured these foundations were firmly in place before any conversation about legacy giving. It was common for donors to volunteer a bequest without even being asked, simply because they felt valued, heard, and appreciated through their relationship with her.
Berna met donors and prospects in person regardless of gift size, believing every supporter deserved that personal touch. This warmth, combined with her diligence and unwavering focus on mission, is what makes her truly exceptional. She consistently goes above and beyond, and any organization would be fortunate to have her guiding their legacy program.
Berna was one of my most brilliant students when she took several courses I taught. But after a few roles in charities, she brilliantly identified the gaps in traditional (old school) fundraising. An international business owner, Berna brings a global diversity of culture, generosity, wealth and yes tax to the table.
Berna's thoughtful questions challenged us to think deeply about the long-term sustainability of our organization. In the midst of our busy lives—focused on introducing the love of music to children who had never even seen a grand piano—we realized we had been overlooking something essential: planning for the future. Berna's honest and eye-opening question, 'Who are the successors of our registered Canadian charity?' prompted a crucial conversation about longevity, leadership, and legacy. Her insight helped us step back, reflect, and begin planning with intention.
The next conversation could be yours.
If your donors are loyal and your mission is worth protecting - let's talk.