Brookfield, Wis. – Funeral Service Foundation Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Lee Wiensch, CFRE, as the Foundation’s executive director. A proven non-profit leader, effective communicator and principled fundraiser, Wiensch’s robust experience, infectious energy and creative innovation will help carry forward the Foundation’s mission to support funeral service in building meaningful relationships with the families and the communities it serves.
The Foundation’s board, together with the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), conducted a national search to seek out the ideal candidate to head the association’s charitable arm. “Lee’s background in foundation and association management uniquely positions her for this very important leadership role,” said NFDA CEO Christine Pepper. “Her insight, passion and values-centered leadership style will strengthen both organizations as we work together to enrich the funeral profession and build upon the incredible strides the Foundation has made in recent years.”
For nearly 30 years, Wiensch has served as a non-profit and community leader, serving in a variety of roles at the fundraising, program, executive and leadership levels. Foundation Chair Bob Arrington described Wiensch as a “mission-driven, effective and inspirational leader.”
“Lee’s character, integrity and inherent understanding of our profession make her a perfect fit,” said Arrington. “The Board and I are very pleased to have her join the dedicated Foundation staff and carry forward the Foundation’s good work in our profession and beyond.”
Wiensch joins the Foundation team from Executive Director, Inc. (EDI), an association management company in Milwaukee, where she has served as the executive director for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) Foundation since 2015. At the helm of the AAAAI Foundation, Wiensch led strategic planning and rebranding efforts, oversaw the growth of the endowment to $15M and implemented initiatives that increased major giving and sponsorships by 400% and 800%, respectively. She also oversaw the organization’s grantmaking procedures, and budget and program development. At EDI, Wiensch also served as a fundraising consultant for the American College of Mohs Surgery Foundation.
“The Foundation’s mission strongly resonates with me and drew me to the role,” said Wiensch. “I look forward to working with Foundation and NFDA leadership and staff to further enrich relationships within the profession, and cultivate the Foundation’s scope and significance within the funeral service community.”
Raised in New England, Wiensch holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in American Government from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. In 2018, she earned her Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) credential, which certifies knowledge of fundraising best practices, accountability, the highest standards of ethical conduct and service to the philanthropic sector.
Lee and her husband, Adam, have been married for 30 years and are the parents of a college-aged son and daughter. They enjoy hiking, travel, spirited discussions about grammar and Milwaukee’s vibrant performing arts scene.