Michael Gens

Background

About Michael Gens

Fundraising and Leadership Professional | Advancing Education Through Philanthropy | Data-Informed Decision MakingTop 5 CliftonStrenghths1. Connectedness: People who are especially talented in the Connectedness theme have faith in the links between all things. They believe there are few coincidences and that almost every event has a reason.2. Relator: People who are especially talented in the Relator theme enjoy close relationships with others. They find deep satisfaction in working hard with friends to achieve a goal.3. Maximizer: People who are especially talented in the Maximizer theme focus on strengths as a way to stimulate personal and group excellence. They seek to transform something strong into something superb.4. Arranger: People who are especially talented in the Arranger theme can organize, but they also have a flexibility that complements this ability. They like to figure out how all of the pieces and resources can be arranged for maximum productivity.5. Belief: People who are especially talented in the Belief theme have certain core values that are unchanging. Out of these values emerges a defined purpose for their life.BackgroundWith over 25 years of experience in college and university advancement, including 22 years at the Iowa State University Foundation, I have dedicated my career to advancing higher education through strategic fundraising, leadership, and collaboration. I excel at navigating large, complex organizations, fostering productive partnerships, and aligning diverse teams to achieve shared goals. My work spans successful fundraising initiatives, leading and coaching high-performing teams, and fostering meaningful collaborations with academic leadership and stakeholders. While I take my work seriously, I don’t take myself too seriously. I enjoy humor, value a balanced life, and prioritize staying healthy and grounded inside and outside of work. I am passionate about the power of philanthropy to transform lives and thrive on building trusting relationships, inspiring teams, and driving innovation. Explore my experience section to learn more about my contributions to higher education advancement.