For us, it’s all about you. Whether you’re trying to raise sustainable funding, build a building, or increase enrollment—your mission is worth advancing. We believe in helping you inspire greater generosity through deeply intentional donor relationships. We don’t push low-return fundraising gimmicks that hide your mission, like impersonal raffles or pricey events (though we do like events). We help you put people first, pure and simple. Because investing in relationships leads to impact that lasts.
Our individual and collective faith in God gives us strength in all things.
We recognize that we are always growing personally, professionally, and unified as a company.
We will be our true, honest, open, and best selves, and we will respect each other for the same.
We will do what it takes to deliver on our promises, to both our clients and each other.
We will work as a team and value relationships over authority.
Schuyler and Jennifer Lehman got into fundraising like most people do: on accident. While working his way through college in the Mayville University mailroom, Schuyler was offered a job by fundraising consultants. He decided that would be a great way to use his chemistry and information technology degree, and set out to learn the art and science of fundraising. Soon, he was supporting and leading campaigns all over the country. Meanwhile, Jennifer pursued a Bachelors degree in music and a Masters in business and nonprofit management, bringing her academic and administrative skills to the table.
After working in the industry for multiple consulting firms and leading hundreds of engagements, the Lehmans decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship. Their dream was to build a practice focused on transformational donor engagements through people-centered fundraising. It’s a philosophy they knew to be the “secret sauce” all nonprofit missions must have for sustainable growth, and one that rarely gets the time and attention it deserves from nonprofit leaders.
Back in 2007, Schuyler worked from the McKinney public library to form the early framework of Mission Advancement while Jennifer managed all the “back of house” business after their two toddlers went to bed. Today, Jennifer leads their growing team while Schuyler focuses on writing, mentoring, and supporting the mission. Together and with the Mission Advancement team, they’re bringing purpose-driving fundraising to nonprofit leaders across the country.
Alyssa brings over 10 years of nonprofit experience to Mission Advancement, spanning special events, volunteer and membership management, donor relations, and stewardship. As a Client Service Manager, she puts her expertise in grants management and fundraising strategies to work by...
Read Bio
Client Service Manager
Alyssa brings over 10 years of nonprofit experience to Mission Advancement, spanning special events, volunteer and membership management, donor relations, and stewardship. As a Client Service Manager, she puts her expertise in grants management and fundraising strategies to work by providing guidance and support to a dedicated team of consultants.
Prior to joining Mission Advancement, Alyssa excelled in various roles, showcasing her expertise in event planning, grants management, and organizational leadership. With a track record of successfully executing over 250 events, Alyssa's attention to detail and strategic thinking ensured unforgettable experiences. She further honed her skills as a Grants Associate at Communities Foundation of Texas, overseeing grantmaking and philanthropic advising programs, fostering impactful community initiatives. Additionally, as the Assistant Director for a statewide association, she adeptly managed daily operations and program budgets, demonstrating her proficiency in organizational leadership. Alyssa's versatile background and dedication to the non-profit space make her a valuable asset, poised to drive meaningful change and deliver exceptional service to our clients.
Growing up in Wisconsin, Alyssa set her eyes on warmer weather, earning her B.S. in Marketing from Arizona State University, and following graduation, made Dallas, Texas her home. Together with her husband, son, and rescue pup, Milo, she enjoys cooking, outdoor activities, and quality time with loved ones.
Anna works as a Client Coordinator and is a member of the Operations Team. Within this role, Anna works to support the company at large, using her affinity for review and knowledge of the grant space of fundraising to help...
Read Bio
Client Coordinator
Anna works as a Client Coordinator and is a member of the Operations Team. Within this role, Anna works to support the company at large, using her affinity for review and knowledge of the grant space of fundraising to help Mission Advancement ensure excellence on deliverables, synthesize company processes, and assist in problem-solving and special projects. Today, Anna combines her keen attention to detail, adaptability, and desire for intentional relationship building with her passion for serving others alongside the Mission Advancement team.
With previous experience both on the administrative and programmatic/direct-service sides in the nonprofit space, Anna brings a unique set of knowledge and skills to the Mission Advancement team. She has previously served in the roles of executive assistant, academic specialist, program assistant, and volunteer coordinator consecutively at HOPE Farm – an after-school program for fatherless boys and resource program for their single mothers – as well as in the executive assistant and project support roles through Mission Allies – a grant writing firm supporting local area nonprofits in their fundraising, relationship stewardship, and overall strategic growth.
A DFW native, Anna received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas Christian University. She also earned a Master of Arts in Sociology from Columbia University in the City of New York. Anna is an avid sports lover, keeping up with multiple teams across almost every sport as well as playing soccer on the weekends. She is also a talented baker and always enjoys cooking meals or baking sweet treats for her friends and family.
Caleb serves as Client Coordinator within the Operations Team. Caleb utilizes his strengths in interpersonal communication, relationship building, and attention to detail to provide outstanding services and comprehensive support to clients and the Mission Advancement team. As part of the...
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Client Coordinator
Caleb serves as Client Coordinator within the Operations Team. Caleb utilizes his strengths in interpersonal communication, relationship building, and attention to detail to provide outstanding services and comprehensive support to clients and the Mission Advancement team. As part of the Operations Team, Caleb works on special projects to help streamline company processes and utilizes his passion for helping people to facilitate success and an exemplary experience for clients during their time with Mission Advancement.
Prior to joining the Mission Advancement team, Caleb worked in the mental health field on both the clinical and administrative side. His time in the healthcare field provided him with a myriad of experience in group and individual therapy, behavior analysis, and interpersonal relationships. He has experience working with nonprofit organizations in Arkansas, and he brings his passion for serving people with him to Texas and to Mission Advancement.
Originally from Texas, Caleb completed his Bachelors of Psychology and his Masters of Mental Health Counseling at The University of Central Arkansas. He and his wife were married during graduate school and moved back to Texas shortly after graduating. They now live in McKinney and love traveling to new places whenever they can. They also enjoy going for walks with their 8 year old beagle named Romo.
Chris is Mission Advancement's Business Intelligence Analyst. Previously, Chris worked in a leadership capacity with the Texas House of Representatives in a legislative operations role. Appointed by the Speaker to be an Officer of the House, he guided staff and...
Read Bio
Business Intelligence Analyst
Chris is Mission Advancement's Business Intelligence Analyst. Previously, Chris worked in a leadership capacity with the Texas House of Representatives in a legislative operations role. Appointed by the Speaker to be an Officer of the House, he guided staff and officials through the rigors of the legislative process. In this role, he discovered a passion for utilizing data and analytical skills to promote organizational success. Chris honed these skills further through a graduate education at Southern Methodist University, where he earned a Masters of Arts Management and MBA with a focus in Business Analytics.
Chris has had the opportunity to work with organizations across Texas and the globe, helping them develop new fundraising strategies, refine donor engagement approaches, develop pricing strategies, and craft audience development plans.
Outside of work, Chris enjoys working out recipes picked up on trips abroad, cycling, and playing the piano.
A master relationship-builder, Ellen Rossini brings over 25 years of fundraising and nonprofit leadership to serve as a Senior Consultant for Mission Advancement Professionals, where she coaches and guides nonprofit organizations to success in fund development and capital campaigns.
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Senior Consultant
A master relationship-builder, Ellen Rossini brings over 25 years of fundraising and nonprofit leadership to serve as a Senior Consultant for Mission Advancement Professionals, where she coaches and guides nonprofit organizations to success in fund development and capital campaigns.
The top graduate of her class at Arizona State University’s Cronkite School of Journalism, Ellen began her career as a newspaper reporter and editor and as a free-lance writer before finding her heart in the nonprofit sector. During her 10-year tenure as the development director for the Catholic Pro-Life Community, the pro-life ministry of the Diocese of Dallas, Ellen nearly doubled the organization’s annual income to $1.4 million. In her subsequent roles as senior advancement officer and then director of major gifts for the University of Dallas, she raised millions from individual donors and initiated successful donor relations programs for alumni and for parents.
Ellen is a lifelong learner who in 2020 earned a Master of Leadership degree from the University of Dallas. She and her husband Carl have been married for 38 years and are blessed with four young adult children, two daughters-in-law and a son-in-law, and two grandchildren. They are actively involved in their local church, and Ellen serves on the board of Dawn of Mercy, a local nonprofit organization assisting victims of sexual abuse. She enjoys spending time with her large extended family and friends, reading, travel, health and nutrition, and the family dog, a Yorkie mix named Brinkley.
Erin Samson is a diverse fundraising professional with over 18 years of experience in nonprofit management, institutional advancement, and social services. As a Mission Advancement Managing Consultant, she leads capital campaign and development counsel efforts in the Austin region. Erin...
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Assistant Vice President
Erin Samson is a diverse fundraising professional with over 18 years of experience in nonprofit management, institutional advancement, and social services. As a Mission Advancement Managing Consultant, she leads capital campaign and development counsel efforts in the Austin region. Erin has raised millions of dollars in annual, major gift, and capital campaign funds for numerous organizations across Texas.
Before her tenure with Mission Advancement, Erin held a leadership position with a national association where she had the privilege of working to secure major gifts through relationship-based fundraising for a $5 million capital campaign. Over the years, Erin has gained significant experience in management, major gift solicitations, sustainable annual giving programs, and capital campaigns. Erin has been a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) since 2016.
A native Texan and graduate of McMurry University in Abilene, Texas with a B.A. in Communications, Erin found her passion for fundraising while working in the alumni office during her college years. Erin lives near Austin, Texas, with her husband and their three children. When not working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends usually on a patio, watching sports, being involved with her church, and supporting her children’s activities.
Heather currently serves as a Consultant and Grant Writer for Mission Advancement, working directly with clients to meet their funding goals.
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Consultant
Heather currently serves as a Consultant and Grant Writer for Mission Advancement, working directly with clients to meet their funding goals.
She brings over 25 years of nonprofit management, fundraising, and grant writing experience to the Mission Advancement team working with a variety of organizations such as: United Way, Girl Scouts, The Dallas Opera, Children’s Advocacy Center, and most recently the local school district. Heather is passionate about utilizing her education, skills, talents, and experience to inspire and equip each organization to advance their mission. Heather believes in helping others in every area of her life as evidenced by her long-time commitment to community and the not-for-profit space.
Heather is originally from Lubbock, Texas, where she earned a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies and a M.A. in Organizational Management. For the last 20 years, Heather has made Coppell her home enjoying the community with her husband and 3 children. When she is not working you will find her supporting her kids at their many activities, volunteering, or enjoying the outdoors.
Jessica brings 7 years of nonprofit fundraising experience to her work as a Mission Advancement Consultant. She is a passionate writer who gets excited by every opportunity to create a unique and compelling Case for Support for a transformational nonprofit.
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Consultant
Jessica brings 7 years of nonprofit fundraising experience to her work as a Mission Advancement Consultant. She is a passionate writer who gets excited by every opportunity to create a unique and compelling Case for Support for a transformational nonprofit.
Before joining the team at Mission Advancement, Jessica served as Director of Development at Interfaith Family Services in Dallas. During her three years in the role, she executed development strategy and special events, provided oversight of volunteers, social media, and marketing, and stewarded the agency's mid-level and major donors.
A Fayetteville, Arkansas native, Jessica journeyed all the way to New York to pursue her undergraduate degree in Drama at Vassar College. Jessica then headed back down South to complete a year of service through AmeriCorps at Reading Partners North Texas - where she fell in love with nonprofit work. Jessica is a member of the Junior League of Dallas, AFP of Greater Dallas, and a local church. She enjoys traveling, yoga, and adventuring with her fiancé Alex and her dog Bruno.
Alyssa brings over 10 years of nonprofit experience to Mission Advancement, spanning special events, volunteer and membership management, donor relations, and stewardship. As a Client Service Manager, she puts her expertise in grants management and fundraising strategies to work by...
Read Bio
Client Service Manager
Alyssa brings over 10 years of nonprofit experience to Mission Advancement, spanning special events, volunteer and membership management, donor relations, and stewardship. As a Client Service Manager, she puts her expertise in grants management and fundraising strategies to work by providing guidance and support to a dedicated team of consultants.
Prior to joining Mission Advancement, Alyssa excelled in various roles, showcasing her expertise in event planning, grants management, and organizational leadership. With a track record of successfully executing over 250 events, Alyssa's attention to detail and strategic thinking ensured unforgettable experiences. She further honed her skills as a Grants Associate at Communities Foundation of Texas, overseeing grantmaking and philanthropic advising programs, fostering impactful community initiatives. Additionally, as the Assistant Director for a statewide association, she adeptly managed daily operations and program budgets, demonstrating her proficiency in organizational leadership. Alyssa's versatile background and dedication to the non-profit space make her a valuable asset, poised to drive meaningful change and deliver exceptional service to our clients.
Growing up in Wisconsin, Alyssa set her eyes on warmer weather, earning her B.S. in Marketing from Arizona State University, and following graduation, made Dallas, Texas her home. Together with her husband, son, and rescue pup, Milo, she enjoys cooking, outdoor activities, and quality time with loved ones.
Anna works as a Client Coordinator and is a member of the Operations Team. Within this role, Anna works to support the company at large, using her affinity for review and knowledge of the grant space of fundraising to help...
Read Bio
Client Coordinator
Anna works as a Client Coordinator and is a member of the Operations Team. Within this role, Anna works to support the company at large, using her affinity for review and knowledge of the grant space of fundraising to help Mission Advancement ensure excellence on deliverables, synthesize company processes, and assist in problem-solving and special projects. Today, Anna combines her keen attention to detail, adaptability, and desire for intentional relationship building with her passion for serving others alongside the Mission Advancement team.
With previous experience both on the administrative and programmatic/direct-service sides in the nonprofit space, Anna brings a unique set of knowledge and skills to the Mission Advancement team. She has previously served in the roles of executive assistant, academic specialist, program assistant, and volunteer coordinator consecutively at HOPE Farm – an after-school program for fatherless boys and resource program for their single mothers – as well as in the executive assistant and project support roles through Mission Allies – a grant writing firm supporting local area nonprofits in their fundraising, relationship stewardship, and overall strategic growth.
A DFW native, Anna received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas Christian University. She also earned a Master of Arts in Sociology from Columbia University in the City of New York. Anna is an avid sports lover, keeping up with multiple teams across almost every sport as well as playing soccer on the weekends. She is also a talented baker and always enjoys cooking meals or baking sweet treats for her friends and family.
Caleb serves as Client Coordinator within the Operations Team. Caleb utilizes his strengths in interpersonal communication, relationship building, and attention to detail to provide outstanding services and comprehensive support to clients and the Mission Advancement team. As part of the...
Read Bio
Client Coordinator
Caleb serves as Client Coordinator within the Operations Team. Caleb utilizes his strengths in interpersonal communication, relationship building, and attention to detail to provide outstanding services and comprehensive support to clients and the Mission Advancement team. As part of the Operations Team, Caleb works on special projects to help streamline company processes and utilizes his passion for helping people to facilitate success and an exemplary experience for clients during their time with Mission Advancement.
Prior to joining the Mission Advancement team, Caleb worked in the mental health field on both the clinical and administrative side. His time in the healthcare field provided him with a myriad of experience in group and individual therapy, behavior analysis, and interpersonal relationships. He has experience working with nonprofit organizations in Arkansas, and he brings his passion for serving people with him to Texas and to Mission Advancement.
Originally from Texas, Caleb completed his Bachelors of Psychology and his Masters of Mental Health Counseling at The University of Central Arkansas. He and his wife were married during graduate school and moved back to Texas shortly after graduating. They now live in McKinney and love traveling to new places whenever they can. They also enjoy going for walks with their 8 year old beagle named Romo.
Chris is Mission Advancement's Business Intelligence Analyst. Previously, Chris worked in a leadership capacity with the Texas House of Representatives in a legislative operations role. Appointed by the Speaker to be an Officer of the House, he guided staff and...
Read Bio
Business Intelligence Analyst
Chris is Mission Advancement's Business Intelligence Analyst. Previously, Chris worked in a leadership capacity with the Texas House of Representatives in a legislative operations role. Appointed by the Speaker to be an Officer of the House, he guided staff and officials through the rigors of the legislative process. In this role, he discovered a passion for utilizing data and analytical skills to promote organizational success. Chris honed these skills further through a graduate education at Southern Methodist University, where he earned a Masters of Arts Management and MBA with a focus in Business Analytics.
Chris has had the opportunity to work with organizations across Texas and the globe, helping them develop new fundraising strategies, refine donor engagement approaches, develop pricing strategies, and craft audience development plans.
Outside of work, Chris enjoys working out recipes picked up on trips abroad, cycling, and playing the piano.
A master relationship-builder, Ellen Rossini brings over 25 years of fundraising and nonprofit leadership to serve as a Senior Consultant for Mission Advancement Professionals, where she coaches and guides nonprofit organizations to success in fund development and capital campaigns.
Read Bio
Senior Consultant
A master relationship-builder, Ellen Rossini brings over 25 years of fundraising and nonprofit leadership to serve as a Senior Consultant for Mission Advancement Professionals, where she coaches and guides nonprofit organizations to success in fund development and capital campaigns.
The top graduate of her class at Arizona State University’s Cronkite School of Journalism, Ellen began her career as a newspaper reporter and editor and as a free-lance writer before finding her heart in the nonprofit sector. During her 10-year tenure as the development director for the Catholic Pro-Life Community, the pro-life ministry of the Diocese of Dallas, Ellen nearly doubled the organization’s annual income to $1.4 million. In her subsequent roles as senior advancement officer and then director of major gifts for the University of Dallas, she raised millions from individual donors and initiated successful donor relations programs for alumni and for parents.
Ellen is a lifelong learner who in 2020 earned a Master of Leadership degree from the University of Dallas. She and her husband Carl have been married for 38 years and are blessed with four young adult children, two daughters-in-law and a son-in-law, and two grandchildren. They are actively involved in their local church, and Ellen serves on the board of Dawn of Mercy, a local nonprofit organization assisting victims of sexual abuse. She enjoys spending time with her large extended family and friends, reading, travel, health and nutrition, and the family dog, a Yorkie mix named Brinkley.
Erin Samson is a diverse fundraising professional with over 18 years of experience in nonprofit management, institutional advancement, and social services. As a Mission Advancement Managing Consultant, she leads capital campaign and development counsel efforts in the Austin region. Erin...
Read Bio
Assistant Vice President
Erin Samson is a diverse fundraising professional with over 18 years of experience in nonprofit management, institutional advancement, and social services. As a Mission Advancement Managing Consultant, she leads capital campaign and development counsel efforts in the Austin region. Erin has raised millions of dollars in annual, major gift, and capital campaign funds for numerous organizations across Texas.
Before her tenure with Mission Advancement, Erin held a leadership position with a national association where she had the privilege of working to secure major gifts through relationship-based fundraising for a $5 million capital campaign. Over the years, Erin has gained significant experience in management, major gift solicitations, sustainable annual giving programs, and capital campaigns. Erin has been a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) since 2016.
A native Texan and graduate of McMurry University in Abilene, Texas with a B.A. in Communications, Erin found her passion for fundraising while working in the alumni office during her college years. Erin lives near Austin, Texas, with her husband and their three children. When not working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends usually on a patio, watching sports, being involved with her church, and supporting her children’s activities.
Heather currently serves as a Consultant and Grant Writer for Mission Advancement, working directly with clients to meet their funding goals.
Read Bio
Consultant
Heather currently serves as a Consultant and Grant Writer for Mission Advancement, working directly with clients to meet their funding goals.
She brings over 25 years of nonprofit management, fundraising, and grant writing experience to the Mission Advancement team working with a variety of organizations such as: United Way, Girl Scouts, The Dallas Opera, Children’s Advocacy Center, and most recently the local school district. Heather is passionate about utilizing her education, skills, talents, and experience to inspire and equip each organization to advance their mission. Heather believes in helping others in every area of her life as evidenced by her long-time commitment to community and the not-for-profit space.
Heather is originally from Lubbock, Texas, where she earned a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies and a M.A. in Organizational Management. For the last 20 years, Heather has made Coppell her home enjoying the community with her husband and 3 children. When she is not working you will find her supporting her kids at their many activities, volunteering, or enjoying the outdoors.
Jessica brings 7 years of nonprofit fundraising experience to her work as a Mission Advancement Consultant. She is a passionate writer who gets excited by every opportunity to create a unique and compelling Case for Support for a transformational nonprofit.
Read Bio
Consultant
Jessica brings 7 years of nonprofit fundraising experience to her work as a Mission Advancement Consultant. She is a passionate writer who gets excited by every opportunity to create a unique and compelling Case for Support for a transformational nonprofit.
Before joining the team at Mission Advancement, Jessica served as Director of Development at Interfaith Family Services in Dallas. During her three years in the role, she executed development strategy and special events, provided oversight of volunteers, social media, and marketing, and stewarded the agency's mid-level and major donors.
A Fayetteville, Arkansas native, Jessica journeyed all the way to New York to pursue her undergraduate degree in Drama at Vassar College. Jessica then headed back down South to complete a year of service through AmeriCorps at Reading Partners North Texas - where she fell in love with nonprofit work. Jessica is a member of the Junior League of Dallas, AFP of Greater Dallas, and a local church. She enjoys traveling, yoga, and adventuring with her fiancé Alex and her dog Bruno.
Funding solutions require an intentional plan, not a one-size-fits-all fundraising playbook. Understanding you, your organization, and your vision is the catalyst for our consulting approach.
We’ll work beside you, providing guidance and focusing on high impact + high return activities to tap into your organization’s hidden potential.
Your mission can reach far and wide. Together, we’ll craft and execute an intentional plan that meets your current and future needs.
