11. How to Quiet the Fear + Embrace Risk - Diana Hartley

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Overview

Meet Diana Hartley. This self-professed “creative rebel,” is working to disrupt how philanthropy is taught, perceived, experienced and imparted to her college-level students in the nonprofit organizational studies minor at the University of Oklahoma. She’s laser focused on the question of “how do we leverage the hunger of these new professionals into meaningful contributions on the front lines of our missions and teams?” Her slant on risk taking (it’s a positive thing, folks!) is emboldening a brave new creative world to emerge among her bright young minds.

“Be dedicated to learning and improving, and taking chances that help us be better in our work.”

— Diana Hartley, Professor of Practice, University of Oklahoma Nonprofit Organizational Studies

Diana’s journey and the risks that led her to where she is today
How we as nonprofit professionals can weigh into uncomfortable spaces and embrace risks
Leveraging young professionals in our organizations
Position yourself to become comfortable with risk
Fundraising is all about relationships
Diana’s pet peeve with fundraising today
Diana’s biggest piece of advice for nonprofit young professionals
Do less, be more
Random Acts of Kindness in memory of her friend Lisa

Powerful Quotes:

“Every job and career move that I had helped lead me to where I am today.” -Diana

“At the core of it is the opportunity to connect people.” -Diana

“You are challenging how we can think differently about what we are doing.” -Becky

“We are learning new things every single day, it’s the energy, enthusiasm, and desire to make something better.” -Diana

“I love watching the lightbulb moment go off for my students. They find those organizations and causes they are passionate about.” -Diana

“There is a cultural shift, this generation coming up is going to be so involved in philanthropy.” -Becky

“My dad was always risk adverse. He was afraid to try a new job or make changes in his career. I remember thinking I’m not going to be that way.” -Diana

“Change is good. Status quo is the evil enemy we have to fight.” -Diana

“We can always get better at everything that we do. Be dedicated to learning and improving, and taking chances that help us be better in our work.” -Diana

“This pandemic will result in some greatly needed, massive changes, to the nonprofit sector.” -Diana

“A lot of organizations that have been reliant on events and galas are now realizing it is all about relationships.” -Diana

“Transactional giving doesn’t have a place in 2021.” -Jon

“Focus on that donor who has given you $25 every year for multiple years. Reach out to those people who aren’t always the ones we shower praise on.” -Diana

“The one thing we can give to everyone that doesn’t cost us a penny is our compassion.” -Diana

“We should be leading the world in kindness during these times of uncertainty and conflict.” -Diana

“I’m a big believer that you have to love what you do and do what you love.” -Diana