Emilie Henry
Each month RG175 does a "deeper dive" to get to know one of our Independent School colleagues. This month we are spotlighting one of our own, Emilie Henry. Emilie has spent nearly 25 years as an advancement professional in social service and environment-focused non-profits, with the last 15 years being in independent schools. In addition to her work at RG175, she serves as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, GA. To read Emilie’s entire bio, click here.
Why did you choose RG175?
RG175 is known for both taking the time to understand the unique qualities of each institution they serve as well as their care and attention to each candidate they place. One of the things that makes independent schools such wonderful and fascinating places is that they are all different and special in their own way. The team at RG175, in its incredible diversity and depth of experience in school leadership, understands – and has high regard – for that. I believe that this differentiates the firm from all others and leads to placements that are not only mutually beneficial, but allow each candidate to thrive.
What are you looking forward to most about being a consultant in a search?
I believe that education is the greatest gift anyone can receive and that a key difference between great schools and good schools is philanthropy. Tuition is not a differentiator – it is market-driven. As such, positioning outstanding advancement leaders in schools is critical to ensuring institutional longevity. Productive partnerships with donors developed by advancement professionals enables schools to dream big, to innovate, and to be agile in order meet the ever-evolving needs of today’s students and faculty. To have the opportunity to open doors and provide students with access to possibility through placing excellent, right-fit candidates in advancement leader positions across the country is really exciting to me.
Why are you doing this? Concerned with leadership in independent schools?
The world is ever-evolving, and there are big problems to solve, which will require thoughtful leaders of conscience. I believe independent schools are uniquely positioned to develop leaders who will make a positive impact in the world – and we need them. To do so, schools will need abundant resources that enable them to offer an array of opportunities to a diverse group of young people such that students are limited by nothing more than their imaginations. Finding those individuals and partnering with them to ensure that the hopes and dreams of these kids burn bright – and are fueled by excellent education – is why I do this work. It’s a purpose that inspires me.
What are your thoughts on the search process?
Each search is unique. Of course, there are a standard set of processes that must be accomplished, but the key to facilitating a right-fit placement is to listen deeply. It’s important to understand the culture of the school and what their specific needs are so that you can then find someone whose expertise, experience, and values align with those of the institution. That’s when magic happens. It’s much like working with donors – understanding what they are passionate about and aligning that to the vision and needs of the school enables possibilities beyond what you imagine.
What is most rewarding about serving as a mentor to a school advancement leader?
Advancement work is very rewarding – from the incredible people you meet and get to know, to evolving your practice to meet your donors where they are, to leading a team of talented individuals and helping them grow professionally and personally – but it’s hard work too. The opportunity to provide a listening ear, share experiences, and help advancement leaders navigate the complexities of school life is both personally and professionally fulfilling. To have impact beyond the schools I’ve served and to help cultivate and grow the next generation of independent school leaders is meaningful work that aligns with my values.
What are some of your former achievements as an advancement leader?
For nearly 25 years, I’ve had the opportunity to lead advancement efforts at multiple non-profits whose missions are making the world a better place. The last 15 of those years have been spent in independent schools. During that time, I’ve led teams with responsibility for development, alumni engagement, and all school communications. We’ve exceeded annual fundraising goals each year, with an average of $25 million secured each year and over $350 million raised collectively. Equally important, alongside a group of talented colleagues, we’ve broadened and diversified participation, built and developed an outstanding group of professionals who represent one of the country’s top performing advancement teams, and created a donor-centric program that leaves donors feeling known, valued, and eager to engage time and time again. I have also enjoyed being an active participant in CASE, where I currently serve as Chair of the U.S.-Canada Council, as past chair of the Independent Schools Leadership Group, and as a former faculty member for the Summer Institute for Independent Schools. Along the way, we’ve managed to receive some fundraising and communications awards, but I’m most proud of the outstanding individuals we’ve helped develop who are making a difference in the schools they serve around the country.