On Ignite Success, Suzie Becker welcomes outstanding leaders to this uplifting and interesting show, filled with practical advice and tips for business professionals. This week, Suzie sits down with Jen Jimenez of National Association of Teachers of Singing.
The mission of the National Association of Teachers of Singing is to advance excellence in singing through teaching, performance, scholarship, and research. Celebrating our 80th Anniversary, NATS serves over 7,000 members nationally and internationally across more than 90 chapters and 15 regions.
What Is Your Why?
Having more than two decades of experience in fundraising across a variety of nonprofit organizations, I have a passion for connecting individuals with meaningful philanthropic endeavors. My development career highlights include serving as a frontline fundraiser for higher education institutions and eventually overseeing all fundraising and communications efforts for independent schools.
In addition to my fundraising prowess, I am also a classically trained mezzo-soprano, holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre degree from Shenandoah Conservatory of Music and a master’s degree in vocal pedagogy from Westminster Choir College. Before delving into nonprofit development, I was an entrepreneur owning Encore Music Studio and Dramatic Arts, teaching more than 50 voice students a week and overseeing a team of instructors in the disciplines of piano, guitar, violin and acting.
My unique skill-set of fundraising and voice teaching experience provided a perfect pathway for my transition into the Development Director position at NATS. In my role, I am truly passionate about the wonderful work that our members are doing in the rehearsal room, voice lab, and onstage.
How Did You Get Started In Your Field or Work?
I began my development career raising philanthropic support for my alma mater, Shenandoah Conservatory of Music.
What’s One Thing We Should Know That Makes Your Company Unique?
Driven by our vision to transform lives through the power of singing, NATS offers a variety of life-long learning experiences for our members and their students. One such opportunity is our National Student Auditions where students of NATS members are adjudicated on their performances. This year’s national semifinal auditions featured more than 400 student-singers in NSA categories including Classical, Musical Theatre, Commercial Music, and Children and Youth. The top 3 student-singers in each of this year’s 35 NSA categories advanced from semifinals to national finals. Over $84,000 in prizes were awarded.
What Are Your Biggest Goals in the Next 6 to 12 Months for Your Business?
Having just joined the NATS community in my role as Development Director this past May, I have two big goals in the next 12 months:
- to meet as many Association members, as possible. Currently, I am on a listening tour gathering information, perspectives, and experiences from members around the world.
- To increase NATS contributed revenue by launching strategic annual giving, major gifts, and planned giving campaigns while diversifying our donor constituency.