Jill Hughes
Assistant Vice President for Principal and Planned Giving
OU Foundation
Member since 2021
Why did you join AFP?
I am always impressed to meet colleagues doing incredible work which change and save lives. I love getting to know local professionals who are game-changers and difference-makers and learning how organizations are adopting new technology and the attention of donors.
What is the most exciting thing about the work you do at your current organization?
I am excited to see how our state and region can be transformed by investments made possible by donors and through our profession. Recently, I walked through a building with my son where he may study and learn in the future. When he was little, we walked together through the same space... which was then an open field. Now, he may get to benefit from the facility which would not exist without generous donors and passionate fundraisers.
How did you find your way into fundraising?
After a career in corporate sales with the Disney company, I found myself looking for ways to get closer to family in Oklahoma. A dear friend encouraged me to think about regional development and shared the similarities to regional sales. I decided to give 'development' a try and now 21 years later, I am thankful to be in our industry and the opportunities it has provided.
Share a favorite donor impact story
I am honored to work with a special family who is making cutting-edge healthcare and clinical trials a reality for our state. When hosting the family on campus or at athletic events, they are often stopped by countless strangers who offer thanks for the life-saving care their gifts have made possible. It's these intimate moments between grateful patients and the donor family, not press events or formal celebrations, which have a profound impact again and again.
What is special about the people who give to your organization and/or the people with whom you work?
The humility of our most generous donors is both surprising and delightful. I am constantly reassured about the best of humanity when sitting down with those donors who want to 'pay it forward' and help the next generation like they were supported years ago.
What advice do you have for new professionals joining the community?
If at first you don't succeed, try try again! Remember that every no is one step closer to a yes.
Share a book, movie, or musical artist who inspires you:
I just finished "Madam C. J. Walker's Gospel of Giving, Black Women's Philanthropy during Jim Crow". It is a fascinating read about her life and how philanthropy was interwoven in her career, success and legacy.
How do you spend your free time when you’re not working?
When I am not traveling for fun, I am planning our next family travel adventure. We hope to visit Spain, New Zealand and return to Italy soon.
What is something that few people know about you?
In 1998 I served as a Walt Disney World Ambassador. The Ambassador program, started by Walt himself, allowed me travel across the US representing the Disney brand. It also meant I got to spend time visiting areas across Walt Disney World to learn more. My favorites experiences were launching Disney pyrotechnics, driving a monorail/boat/train/bus, plating up 500 desserts, prepping holiday decor with the Christmas team, landscaping overnight, and hosting a parade as Grand Marshal.