Jennifer Skinner, CFRE
INTEGRIS Health Foundation
Director of Annual Giving
Member since 2021
Why did you join AFP?
When I first joined, I was at a small nonprofit with just two people on the development team. AFP was such a great way to meet other fundraisers, share ideas, and learn what’s working in our community. It reminded me that none of us has to do this work alone.
What is the most exciting thing about the work you do at your current organization?
I really love the team I get to work with, and I believe so much in what we’re doing at INTEGRIS Health. Our donors make it possible for caregivers to provide incredible compassion and care, and it feels amazing to be part of that.
How did you find your way into fundraising?
My background is in events, volunteer engagement, and communications, and I’ve always loved working with people. Over time, I realized fundraising was the perfect mix of all those things. In annual giving, I get to do a little bit of everything, and I absolutely love it.
Share a favorite donor impact story:
One of my favorite reminders of impact is a note from an 87-year-old woman who sent back a small gift in a direct mail response. She told us our ER saved her life and wished she could do more. I keep her note on my bulletin board - it’s such a sweet daily reminder that every single gift has a special story.
What is special about the people who give to your organization and/or the people with whom you work?
Our donors almost always have a story to tell. INTEGRIS Health has touched so many lives across the state, and giving is often a way for people to express their gratitude. For many, it even becomes a meaningful part of their own healing journey.
What surprised you most when you joined the profession, or your current organization?
I was surprised to learn that fundraising isn’t always about asking directly. When you build genuine relationships and show donors the impact of their giving, support often flows naturally as the next step in that connection.
What advice do you have for new professionals joining the community?
Stay curious and open to trying new things, because fundraising is always evolving. Also, remember it’s all about the donors and the difference their generosity makes. They don’t give to us, they give through us.
Share a book, movie, or musical artist who inspires you:
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, and Bread and Wine by Shauna Niequist. They’re both such good reminders to slow down and focus on what really matters.
How do you spend your free time when you’re not working?
I love cooking big meals for friends and family, and I always have a book close by.
What is something that few people know about you?
I was a music performance major - more proof that hardly anyone starts out in fundraising.
What are your favorite foods?
I’ll never turn down good comfort food, but I also love a nice creme brûlée!
Where do you most like (or want!) to travel?
My family loves visiting national parks. There’s nothing better than the quiet of nature, the awe of vast, beautiful spaces, and the chance to slow down and truly connect with each other.
Share a little about your family.
My husband is my best friend, and we’ve been married for 21 happy years. We have two boys, one in high school and one in college, plus a senior black lab at home, and we’re hoping to adopt another lab soon.