GERIANNE PUSKAS, MBA, CNPM, CFRE

Gerianne Puskas is a highly regarded fundraising and development strategist with more than 30 years of experience in fundraising, non-profit management, change management, strategy design, marketing, and communications. Gerianne provides strategic support, coaching, and consultation to nonprofits. In 2023, she founded Mission Advancement Group with a commitment to build a stronger future for the Rochester community through a more robust social sector.

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Puskas served in various positions with national nonprofit agencies focusing on diversifying fundraising portfolios, starting new community events and grant programs, and managing regional and national accounts.  Focusing locally, Puskas served as Chief Advancement Officer at Villa of Hope and VP of Development & Communications at Lollypop Farm.  In these roles, Government Relations and managing departments outside the Advancement realm, including IT and Workforce Development, presented great opportunities for operations, program knowledge and connections in the community.  She coached and mentored staff and volunteers in all roles and continues to do so.  In her almost 30 years of fundraising in Greater Rochester, Gerianne has raised over $70M to help families enjoy Cub Scout Camp, beat cancer and diabetes, get treatment for substance use and mental health, and help rehome abused pets and arrest animal abusers.

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In 2024, Gerianne Puskas was recognized as an Athena International Award finalist, a testament to her work coaching and mentoring women who have faced uncommon challenges in their lives and careers. Her ability to help them achieve goals they believed were out of reach is truly inspiring.  In 2021, Puskas became an Association of Fundraising Professionals Global Master Trainer, a prestigious title that reflects her expertise in the field. In 2018, she attained the rank of Certified Fund-Raising Executive through CFRE International, further solidifying her professional standing. 

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Puskas serves as an adjunct member of the SUNY Empire State University Business Management & Economics Team, where she helps educate and coach the next generation of nonprofit leaders. She serves on the Development Committee of Geva Theatre and the Advisory Board of PUSH Physical Theatre and is the Past President of the Greece Rotary Club and the Penfield-Perinton Kiwanis Club. 

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Puskas and her husband, David, are the proud parents of Rich Farrands and two rescue dogs.