Name: Debora McDell-Hernandez (first name is pronounced Dee-bohr-uh)
Title: Director of Advancement 

DEI at Rochester Regional Health Foundations

Organization: Rochester General College of Health Careers, 

Member since: 2023

How long have you been working in the fundraising profession?

I have only done fundraising for a fraction of my career. I served as Membership Manager for 1.5 years when I first hired to work at the Memorial Art Gallery (MAG) in 2001. I have been doing fundraising at Rochester Regional Health for 1.5 years. Past roles at Chase Manhattan Bank, MAG and Planned Parenthood have included public relations, sales, community relations, marketing and engagement, educational programming, and government relations. 

What do you love most about fundraising?

I appreciate details and understanding programs and departments do their work. Working at Rochester Regional Health Foundations introduces me to the different service lines and the myriad of programs that Rochester Regional Health offers our service region. I have learned so much about the great work that the health system does and even more about the generous people who make our work possible. 

Why did you decide to join AFPGV? 

I am a cheerleader for lifelong learning and joining AFPGV provides many opportunities for continual learning and networking. The landscape for fundraising has changed significantly in the last 10-20 years, so it’s good to stay current and AFPGV is a great resource for this.

What do you enjoy most about being an AFPGV member?  

Resources like workshops, education materials and networking.

What example would you give of a strategy or practice you learned from a fellow AFPGV member or a recent AFPGV educational event that you have recently applied in the workplace that has brought you success? 

The value and importance of community-centric fundraising. The workshop that Dr. Myra Henry led reinforced some things that I already knew and shed light on new things.

Why is Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (I.D.E.A.) important to you and for the work we do every day as fundraising professionals? 

IDEA is essential to having the ability to understand the needs of the community—service providers, beneficiaries and donors, and to deliver services and programs that are intentional, authentic and not performative.

What is your advice to other AFPGV members? Take advantage of the resources that the organization offers and tap into the knowledge of other members.

Let's get to know you! If you would like to be featured in our next member spotlight or would like to nominate someone, please contact us!