Susan Mudd Vogel
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month we are spotlighting Susan Mudd Vogel, Director of Advancement at The Field School in Washington, DC. With three decades of experience in the nonprofit space, Susan is an executive leader providing fundraising strategy, developing programs and advancing non-profit missions. In her spare time she enjoys being with her family, traveling to the Delaware shore, dabbling in calligraphy and watching college football and basketball.
What made you want to get into independent school education?
With a background and experience spanning three decades in philanthropy and fundraising, I wanted to build my skillset within the education sector. Just as grateful patients and families impact healthcare philanthropy, so can students and grateful families impact educational advancement.
What’s your connection to RG175?
I became connected to RG175 during my employment search as they were responsible for leading the search for the Director of Advancement at The Field School.
Can you summarize your experience working with RG175?
My experience with RG175 was positive, professional and pleasant. Jim Pattison was remarkable every step of the way, guiding both parties along the way and providing thorough and valuable feedback. I felt I had an advocate in the process.
If you had one thing to recommend to other candidates, what would it be?
I would recommend to other candidates to be open minded, to trust the process, and to see things through. My particular timing was a bit challenging, and I appreciated knowing that RG175 was listening to me throughout. Additionally, I would share that the candidates need to feel comfortable asking the tough or sensitive questions to ensure the right fit and culture for the role they are seeking, and that RG175 has a strong pulse on their clients and the engagement.
What are you looking forward to about your new job?
I am looking forward to engaging with families and students, learning from my colleagues at the staff and faculty level, and being inspired every day. I am in a place where we need to celebrate the future—of the school, of the student who will become alumni, and of the community who will support our imperative needs.
What are some of your greatest achievements?
Beyond my family (!), my greatest achievements lie in both the success of those I have supervised and mentored during my career, and the transformational gifts that have left an indelible mark. One in particular was a seven-figure bequest from a donor who had made a sizable six figure gift to put our capital campaign over goal, and it came with a wink, a southern smile, and a whisper of 'there's more where that came from...".
Anything you would like to add?
I am grateful to The Field School for offering me an opportunity not only to grow personally and professionally, but to lead a department committed to advancing the mission of the school. Everyone has been so warm and welcoming and I am excited for this wonderful new chapter.