Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee recently named Joel Cencius, CFRE as its new vice president of development. Cencius will oversee all fund development responsibilities for the organization, reporting directly to Amy Chionchio, president & CEO.
As a certified fund raising executive (CFRE), Cencius brings more than 12 years of nonprofit fundraising experience to the role, with time spent in both direct-fundraising leadership positions and organizational management roles. Prior to joining Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee, Cencius served as the senior director of development for St. Joan Antida High School where his strategic leadership style and donor-centered approach resulted in a significant increase of total funds raised. In addition, he established the school’s marketing and communications department, increasing the school’s visibility and enrollment in a competitive high school market. Previous to St. Joan’s, Cencius served as the director of alumni engagement and annual giving at Cardinal Stritch University where he directly managed the University’s annual giving program and all alumni engagement and communication initiatives. Cencius began his nonprofit career at the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, serving as the director of visitor services where he managed day-to-day operations for the museum.
“Joel has a unique combination of critical thinking and relationship development skills. His passion for our mission and the children we serve will ground his strategic fundraising experience and help our agency serve more children in our community,” said Amy Chionchio, president & CEO. “We are excited to welcome him to our leadership team.”
Cencius is an active volunteer within the Milwaukee community, serving many organizations that work directly with youth and teens. He has been a long-time volunteer for Make-a-Wish of Wisconsin and the Arthritis Foundation (National and Regional roles), and is a former Red Shoes Friend for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin. Cencius currently serves on the board of directors for the Washington High School Alumni Scholarship Foundation.
Education: Cencius received a B.A. in communication arts with a minor in business from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wis.
Company:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee
788 N. Jefferson Street
Suite 600
Milwaukee, WI 53202
