Jenn Doughty, CFRE
University of Oklahoma Foundation
AFP Member Since 2021
Why did you join AFP?
AFP has been a chance to learn from people I deeply admire and connect with other fundraising professionals and I have loved it!
What is the most exciting thing about the work you do at your current organization?
I fundraise for the OU Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education, and what excites me most is knowing the work directly supports future teachers and the students they will impact. Education changes lives, and being able to help strengthen that pipeline makes the work both meaningful and energizing. It doesn't hurt to have the BEST dean on campus!
What surprised you most when you joined the profession, or your current organization?
I was initially surprised by the joy that comes from being part of philanthropic giving. Witnessing generosity up close is both humbling and inspiring. It’s a privilege to play a role in a process that builds a better world and honors the legacies of those who aren’t here to see it bloom. The OU Foundation has given me the opportunity to experience this joy firsthand, and it continues to be a source of daily inspiration.
What advice do you have for new professionals joining the community?
Having taken a “trust fall” into fundraising with no prior background, I started out pretty nervous. What I quickly discovered, though, was a deeply supportive and encouraging community that cheered me on and helped me grow. My advice to new professionals: don’t be afraid to jump in. Say yes, be curious, and know there’s an opportunity to learn at every turn.
How do you spend your free time when you’re not working?
When I’m not working, I’m usually in hot pursuit of my kiddos, refereeing epic Nerf battles, negotiating snack treaties, or performing impromptu Uber duties. On the rare occasion I snag a free moment, you might catch me touching all my toes at yoga, disappearing into my Kindle like it’s a secret portal to Narnia, or napping so hard the kids poke me with a stick to see if I am still alive.
What are your favorite foods?
My mornings kick off with enough coffee to power a small city, and I’m fairly certain chocolate has saved my life more than once
Share a little about your pets, family, or friends
I’m married to my college sweetheart, and together we have two kiddos who bring us endless joy, plenty of laughter, and the constant privilege of being their personal Uber drivers. Our 12-year-old daughter is absolutely crushing 7th grade, while our 6-year-old 1st grader is convinced he’s the coolest member of the family (he’s mistaken—it’s me). Rounding out the crew is Timber “Drumstick” Doughty, our adopted pit bull, who unapologetically runs the household.