Milagro "Misa" Lobato
Rumford, Rhode Island, United States
1K followers
500+ connections
1K followers
500+ connections
About
I’m an industry-leading fundraising intelligence and performance management expert with…
Activity
1K followers
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisIf you are looking for inspiration this Giving Tuesday on why philanthropy matters, listen to this podcast from Tim Wilson featuring my friend Cal Sturgeon. They speak about the Apra Foundation, an organization that supports professional development for people in the Prospect Development field. I’ve served on the Apra Foundation board of trustees for several years and have watched it evolve grantmaking to support PD professionals through a variety of challenges, including the pandemic and budget cuts. I’m so proud to support the Apra Foundation and I think Cal will inspire you to support an organization you’re passionate about.Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisIn honor of Giving Tuesday on December 2nd, 2025, "People in Fundraising" spotlights a longtime Apra volunteer leader and donor to the Apra Foundation, Cal Sturgeon! On behalf of the Apra Foundation - on which I've served since fall 2024 - I am excited to share Cal's story about being a donor to the Apra Foundation, in their case through a monthly recurring donation. The Apra Foundation (link to donate: https://lnkd.in/grrMJDXP) gratefully accepts donations of any amount from anyone at any time. Donations support scholarships that are awarded to prospect development (PD) fundraisers to attend the annual Apra PD conference. In Cal's own words: * Why they donate to the Apra Foundation: "I am unbelievably blessed beyond measure by my experiences with Apra, both locally and internationally...I give to causes that I care about and where I can see direct impact from my giving." The Apra Foundation is one of a handful four causes that Cal consistently supports. * The impact of supporting the Apra Foundation: "It is so incredibly important to our profession. It's nice to know that in my small part, I've helped bring people to the conference and help people further their careers in our profession. Having well-versed prospect development professionals is critical to fundraising success, and I can see the direct impact of my dollars." Please join Cal, me, and many other prospect development friends on Giving Tuesday by making a gift to the Apra Foundation. Thank you, Cal, for movingly and personally sharing why you are a longtime donor to the Apra Foundation! Please see Cal's conversation on: YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gXJbX79f Podbean: https://lnkd.in/gu6VyTjF My website, with thanks to Louis Diez of WIZE and the Donor Participation Project: https://lnkd.in/grHqjKK3
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisIf you’re an Apra member who has never attended the Prospect Development conference, this could be your lucky summer! The Apra Foundation will cover registration for either virtual or in-person attendance to PD2025 in Baltimore, Maryland in August. Full eligibility details, and the link to enter the lottery, are below:Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisOne week only! Enter the Apra Foundation's PD2025 lottery! The Apra Foundation is dedicated to supporting educational opportunities and professional development — including attendance at Prospect Development 2025 — for individuals engaged in advancement research. Now through Monday, July 21, the Foundation invites current Apra members who have not attended a Prospect Development Conference to enter its Prospect Development 2025 lottery for the chance to win a FREE registration to attend in person in Baltimore Aug. 19-22 or virtually Aug. 20-22. To Be Eligible To Win You Must: · Be a current Apra member · Not have attended an Apra Prospect Development Conference in the past · Not be currently registered to attend Prospect Development 2025 as an in-person or virtual attendee https://lnkd.in/gpgXNJAe
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisMy wonderful team is hiring two senior-level fundraising positions. If you're mission-driven and looking for a spot with excellent leadership and inspiring academic medical research and clinical care, please apply! https://lnkd.in/eNh3_a7FSenior Director of Development - Medical Philanthropy & Massey Comprehensive Cancer CenterSenior Director of Development - Medical Philanthropy & Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisI couldn’t sleep this morning; I’m on vacation in an unfamiliar bed that my back isn’t all that crazy about. As one does at 2am when wide awake in the dark, I started scrolling my phone. And because for the first time in my adult life my job doesn’t fill me with dread, I checked my work email and saw one that said: Hey — you up? So are a lot of VCU students. It was the first email for VCU Giving Day, and it went out at 12:04am. I am so proud to work for VCU. At a staff meeting last year, I learned that VCU prides itself on having a high acceptance rate for admissions as well as a high graduation rate. That means that VCU is purposefully inclusive and accessible; it’s an institution that aims to provide education to those who seek it. I couldn’t have dreamed of a public university more aligned with my values. This Giving Day, I’m supporting several funds across campus that speak to me. I didn’t go to VCU, but its broad-ranging impact—from life-saving cancer research to supporting students through addiction recovery—make me proud to be a staff member and even prouder to be a donor. Join me today and make a gift on VCU Giving Day!
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato reposted thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato reposted thisPOINT OF CLARIFICATION. The concepts of Affirmative Action and DEI didn't drop out of the sky to help unqualified women, people of color, and LGBTQ leaders have unfair advantages in hiring processes. These laws, policies and practices were created out of need. They were developed based on qualitative, quantitative, and historical workplace hiring practice data. Equity and inclusion are not historically woven into the fabric of America's hiring practices. Being fair, just, and right are not foundational values America stands on related to employment practices. Don't believe me? If you have women in your life 60 and older ask them about hiring and financial practices they experienced during their lifetime. In fact, you can ask women under the age of 60. Many of these women have stories of inequity and exclusion being common in workplaces today. As I monitor workforce trends, data indicates a need to continue DEI and Affirmative Action programs. It is trending increasing numbers of new entrants in the workforce are women, people of color and young professionals. How will we attract and retain these high potential nontraditional leaders if we allow the continuation of workforce discrimination practices with no guard rails. Is America cutting off its nose to spite its face? Only time will tell. May this post... -Open Hearts -Challenge Assumptions -Expand Minds What kind of ancestor will you be?
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisIt was such a pleasure to be invited to participate in Tim Wilson’s wonderful “People in Fundraising” series! In typical fashion, I way overshare about my shortcomings as a human being (Tim, thanks for the free therapy sesh 😉), as well as my relentless hunger for green chile. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! #vivalaraza #vivalacausa #vivalaunidadMilagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisIn honor of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th - October 15th), I am pleased to share this fascinating "People in Fundraising" interview with Milagro "Misa" Lobato! She works with a prior episode guest, Rachel Brandell-Mayers, at Virginia Commonwealth University. A longtime prospect development leader and Apra volunteer, Misa shares her thoughts on an array of topics, including: * How Misa is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month * Her reaction, with personal and professional anecdotes, to Elizabeth Colón's (president, Chicago chapter, National Association of Women Business Owners) quote: "Don't let fear stop you from achieving what you want." * Her "relationship to achievement," as Misa termed this prevalent sentiment where many workers feel that much of their identity is defined by work terms (director, etc.) and a dizzying drive for continued progress and success. * Misa's role in launching Apra International's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, now the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, Justice, and Access Committee. * Misa's health crisis, which prompted a re-assessment of her goals and how she works. I also share about my health crisis from 2013. Misa and I have a deep conversation about what these significant challenges meant for how we wanted to live, work, be grateful, and make more deliberate decisions. Thank you Misa for a wide-ranging, riveting, and really enjoyable conversation! I appreciate your candidness, and know that your authenticity will resonate with our audience. View here: https://lnkd.in/dGhu6eY6 and listen here: https://lnkd.in/dVuqttXU
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisI’m so fortunate and proud to work for an institution making a transformative societal impact. Today I’m supporting two funds close to my heart: Dogs on Call, which allows trained therapy dogs to support patients, and Medicines for All, which has driven down costs and improved worldwide access to lifesaving medicines. Join me in supporting VCU on #VCUGivingDay!Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisToday, join us for #VCU’s third annual Giving Day! You and your fellow Rams — alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff, retirees, caregivers, grateful patients, friends and neighbors — can come together to support the scholarships, research and initiatives that transform our community! When you make a gift on Giving Day, you: 💛Provide opportunities for students to stay in school even if they’re facing a financial crisis. 🖤Enable students to learn and grow in and outside the classroom. 💛Support groundbreaking and lifesaving research. 🖤Ensure patients receive the care they need, regardless of their background and resources. 💛And much more! On Giving Day, you make a difference. Can't wait to show your love for VCU? Want to make a gift today? Please visit givingday.vcu.edu ! #VCUGivingDay #VCU #VCURams #VCUAlumni
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisI’ve been working at VCU for two months, and the culture here is LIFE CHANGING. Want to see for yourself? Join me in advancing the future of healthcare by applying for this incredible opportunity. I’ll even build your portfolio myself! If you want more info, contact me!
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared thisExciting things are happening at #VCU! On day 5 of starting my new role supporting medical philanthropy, the Massey Cancer Center was designated a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute. Quite the fanfare for my arrival! 😉Milagro "Misa" Lobato shared this#VCU Massey Cancer Center has been designated a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the nation’s principal authority on cancer research and training. 👏 Read more: https://lnkd.in/eEVdfCxm #VCUHealthVCU Massey Cancer Center achieves comprehensive status from the National Cancer InstituteVCU Massey Cancer Center achieves comprehensive status from the National Cancer Institute
Milagro "Misa" Lobato commented on a post
2mo
Not shocked at all! You are truly a star! So lucky to work with you!
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato liked thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato liked thisWhat an awesome day! It was a pleasure volunteering with Feed More this morning alongside my colleagues from the VCU College of Humanities and Sciences. After a few hours of spooning vegetables, ladling marinara, and stacking trays filled with wholesome food, my gratitude for this team is boundless. Looking forward to our next community outing! #VCU #CHS #FeedMore
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato liked thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato liked thisToday's "People in Fundraising" guest, Selene Hur, MISt Hur, is a longtime volunteer and social impact leader in Toronto. Recently, she wrote about concluding 10 years of service with Toronto Wildlife Centre (link to her article in comments). Her love and care for animals are themes we often wove into our really enjoyable conversation! Selene shares: * What led to her volunteer leadership with Toronto Wildlife Centre and other organizations, including serving on prospect development's Apra International board - and what elements of board service have helped her to grow as a person and professional. * Moments and learning experiences as the YMCA of Greater Toronto's first and so far only Manager of Prospect Development & Research. * Her reflections on this quote by Time writer Ann Patchett, describing late primatologist Jane Goodall's incredible work: "Genius built on the ability to wait seems particularly female - curiosity dovetailed with patience. When Jane was a child in England, she knew she was meant for animals, for Africa. Without a university education, or fear, she headed into the jungle with a notebook, sat atop a knoll or climbed a tree, and waited." [Side note: Selene and I talk about the magnificent 2017 documentary, "Jane." We highly recommend this to anyone!]. Thank you Selene for an outstanding conversation, accessible here: YouTube: https://lnkd.in/gaS2B-qb Podbean: https://lnkd.in/gSS4UtPD My website, generously sponsored by Louis Diez of WIZE and the Donor Participation Project: https://lnkd.in/gPVKDUeA
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on this✨UPDATE✨ 2026 has truly been a year of new beginnings. I’m reflecting on my decision to transfer to a new doctoral program and join the academic community at Antioch University - a new beginning that I needed more than I realized. Today marks the end of my first residency with the Antioch University-PhD Program in Leadership and Change and it did not disappoint! I leave the week with a full cup and a sense of peace and purpose as I move one step closer to candidacy and writing my dissertation. I’m reminded that clarity and courage can truly open doors and place you where you’re meant to be. I feel uplifted and affirmed. The other side of fear is a great place to be! And the icing on the cake? I am grateful to have culminated the week with two women I respect, trust, and admire - my colleague, classmate and friend - Kimberly O'Neil and Antioch’s own, the incomparable Christina Z. W. Chang, PhD. This experience has delivered full circle moments and confirmation at every turn. So cheers to new beginnings and to believing that the best is yet to come! #NewChapter #OnwardWeGo #DrMLoading 📚💚
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisLast week, I accepted the 2026 Rising Star Award from the Virginia Association for Fundraising Executives. Being recognized alongside so many incredible fundraisers doing critical work in their respective communities was both humbling and inspiring. In my remarks, I shared that I wasn’t standing there solely because of my own efforts, but because I have been fortunate enough to be nurtured by mentors and supervisors who gave me the space to grow. Since many of them could not be there in person, I want to recognize them here. Thank you to Lamar Walker, Lynanne Jamison, Ed.D., Lauren Braun, Rhonda Toussaint, Elizabeth Bass, and Amy Gray Beck, Ph.D. for seeing my potential and giving me the space to run free with my ideas I also want to thank Briana B., Jonathan Moore, Amy, and Kaylynn Hill for nominating me and for being the biggest cheerleaders in my corner. It really takes a village, and I am so fortunate to have mine.
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisHad the best time in Toronto last week for the National Association of Cancer Center Development Offices (NACCDO) conference. Thankful for the encouragement from my leadership to submit a proposal to present and have the opportunity to talk about donor engagement and discovery with Christian Moreno! Grateful for the opportunity to learn from so many great cancer centers and to be a part of VCU Medical Philanthropy and Team Massey.
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisStill shocked and surprised to have been named the 2026 Rising Star through VAFRE. This honor is shared with all my colleagues, alumni, donors, and community members in get to work alongside to support LGBTQ+ initiatives at VCU and in Richmond.Milagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisThe Rising Star Award is made annually to a fundraising professional who exhibits excellent potential and who has demonstrated remarkable talents at an early stage in their fundraising career. This year’s winner is Josh Leidy, Director of Affinity Engagement and Philanthropy at VCU. Attend the VAFRE Awards Presentation and Reception to celebrate Josh and all the other award recipients on Tuesday, May 5, at Feed More from 4pm to 6pm. Register here: https://lnkd.in/e-5qXFJJ
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Milagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisMilagro "Misa" Lobato reacted on thisMay the 4th Be With You! It's a special day for "Star Wars" fans like me and today's excellent guest, Barron Cato. After recently completing one goal (Greening the Map of the U.S.), today starts a new podcast goal: Each week for the next 52+ Mondays, "People in Fundraising" will feature an interview with a nonprofit leader of color. This is an important new goal to amplify the voices and experiences of people of color. I am grateful for the reception so far to this podcast focus from a diverse, and world-spanning, collection of upcoming guests. Launching this goal with Barron is an honor. In our conversation, Barron discusses: * How his role as the Director of Data Science and Analytics has evolved over the 5 years he has held this position; * His liberal arts and business studies, coupled with Barron being a Certified Intuition Master Practitioner, a Certified Yoga Body Breath Coach, and a martial artist - and how his mastery and application of these broad elements compliment each other; * How he has seen gift officers/MGO’s adapt to the implementation of data science and analytics tools to advance fundraising objectives. In particular, Barron shares what has worked well in his communication and training of MGO’s to help them become more willing and eager to see data science and analytics’ critical contributions. * Some of his favorite parts from "a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away!" Barron, thank you for an outstanding and really fun conversation! I loved our time together. Please access Barron's interview via links in the first comment.
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Education
Volunteer Experience
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President Elect
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Treasurer
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Chair, Governance Committee
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Member, Board of Directors
Apra | Prospect Research
- Present 9 years 11 months
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Member, Governance Committee
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Member, Advocacy Committee
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Chair, Membership Committee
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Member, Body of Knowledge Committee
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Conference Chair, Apra Prospect Development 2015
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year 1 month
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Co-chair, 2014 Apra Conference Roundtable Event
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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Member, 2013 Apra Conference Curriculum Planning Committee
Apra | Prospect Research
- 1 year
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President
CPRA
- 1 year 6 months
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Vice President
CPRA
- 3 years
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Communications Director
CPRA
- 3 years
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