The Grace of Giving: Recent Episodes
James Riley & Grace Prosniewski
To share how we as Notre Dame Development employees help to unlock the grace of giving in our everyday lives. Colleagues share both professional and personal stories as we explore their answers to the question: “Why Notre Dame Development?”
In this latest episode of the Grace of Giving podcast, we take a deeper dive into asceND with two wonderful colleagues, Regional Director on the Southern Team Shannon Forry and Senior Regional Director of the Northwest Team Sean Sharpe. We also learn what it's like to be an identical twin, and to be a father of identical twins. All this and more in the Grace of Giving! Thanks Sean and Shannon!
We're kicking off a special series on the launch of the asceND project! Up until the official launch on October 23rd, we'll be highlighting the team members who have been actively involved in the creation and testing of this game-changing technology. Joining us today are Gift Analyst Meg Buysse and Gift & Data Management Analyst Jessica Witous.
The Grace of Giving welcomes Annual Giving Program Assistant Director Wendy Garcia Sigala to the show! In this episode we explore the origins of how Wendy and her family found the Midwest, the beauty of the four seasons in the Reno/Tahoe area, and the fun and not-so-fun benefits of working in retail during the holidays. Thanks for joining us Wendy!
The Grace of Giving podcast welcomes, Digital Content Assistant Director, Hugo Manriquez Diaz to the show! In this fun episode we dive into the fields of video-making and aeronautical engineering, one of his hottest days on campus, and the exquisite culinary delicacy of eating breakfast for dinner. Bacon and eggs anyone? Thanks Hugo!
This episode of “The Grace of Giving” podcast features Senior Director of Prospect & Research Strategy, Andrea Swanagan! In this episode we discuss Andrea's time in the Air Force, how she builds culture among her teams, and her part-time job as a "carpool logistician"!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Associate Vice President for Advancement Services, Brian Diss, to the show! In this fun episode we talk about new year resolutions, why pie is always better than cake, and Brian's dream job of being a host on The Today Show! All this and more fun, here on the Grace of Giving!
The Grace of Giving is happy to welcome Leadership Annual Giving Associate Director Danielle Filgueira to the show! In this episode we find out why Danielle turned down many world-renowned art schools to attend Notre Dame, her thoughts on the culture in University Relations, and why her hometown of Miami Springs, FL is a total hidden gem. All that and more laughs, here on the Grace of Giving! Thanks Danielle!
The Grace of Giving welcomes, Program Assistant Director for the Annual Giving team, Dezha Moore to the show! In this fun episode, which was recorded at St. Joe Coffee Co. located in downtown South Bend, we explored Dezha's first experience at Notre Dame, her passion for event planning, and what motivates her when it comes to singing. You'll also get a snippet of her recently released album, Dear Weekend, during the episode. Thanks for being with us, Dezha!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Learning & Organizational Development Associate, Mary Flynt, to the show! In this episode we discuss balancing work and being a first time mom, the critical steps in properly onboarding new colleagues, and a powerful crescendo in a popular Mumford & Sons songs. All this and more in the Grace of Giving! Thanks Mary!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Director of Prospect Development & Strategy, Jonathan Retartha, to the show! In this episode we are situated next to Holy Cross lake on a beautiful summer day, and enjoy conversation about fatherhood, his special relationship with twin brother and Domer, Ryan, and the pièce de résistance to any barbeque. Thanks for joining us Jonathan!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Senior Director of Marketing Communications for the Notre Dame Alumni Association, Digger O'Brien! In this episode we discuss Digger's Emmy award-winning work, the essence of a hoagie, and being the proud parent of a child on the autism spectrum. Thanks for joining us, Digger!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Event Program Director for the Notre Dame Alumni Association, Erin Thornton, to the show! In this fun episode we try to find all of the hidden Mickey's in Erin's office, as well as discuss what it takes to plan a large-scale event, and how coming from a large, diverse family has helped shape Erin's outlook on the world. Thanks for being on the show, Erin!
In this episode of the Grace of Giving Podcast, we’re joined today by Michael Connaughton, Development Associate Director on the Southwest team, aka, "Southbest" Region. We discuss what growing up in South Bend was like, how IU Coach Bobby Knight checked in on his academics, and Mike's love of the great outdoors. Thanks for spending time with us, Mike!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Regional Director of the New York Metro Region, Lauren Donahue, to the show! In this fun episode, we continue our Yinzer lingo, talk about a mysterious case of earrings, and how Lauren has become famous in the sport of field hockey. Thanks for joining us Lauren!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Senior Director of Athletics Advancement, Kim Borza Donaldson, to the show! We had so much fun discussing "Pittsburghese" phrases, competitive tennis, and why everyone should become a FOAG. All this and more laughs on the Grace of Giving Podcast. Thanks Kim!
The Grace of Giving welcomes our first guest of 2022, Associate Director of Leadership Annual Giving, Indi Jackson, to the show! In this episode we discuss Indi's life as a Notre Dame accounting maven and track star, her fabulous podcasting career, and what she would do if she could travel back in time. This and tons (and tons) of laughs in this episode of GoG. Thanks Indi!!!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Affinity Programs Director in the Notre Dame Alumni Association, Angeline Johnson to the show! In this episode we discuss the importance of connection, both internally and externally; how diversity and inclusion is a work in progress, and the essence of birthday party planning for kids. Thanks for joining us Angeline!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Senior Director of Gift & Data Management, Amy Schell, to the show! In this episode we discuss the ever-evolving area of innovation, craft beers, and the fierce rivalry between Michigan State University and University of Michigan. Welcome to Season 3 of the Grace of Giving Podcast! Thanks Amy!
Wowza! We flipped the script in today's episode. The Grace of Giving podcast welcome Grace and James! We've spent quite a few episodes interviewing our colleagues about their childhoods, passions, and projects. We thought we'd give you a lens into our lives as well in this episode, like how far is Detroit from Pinckney? What was Notre Dame like in the early 90s? And, what's it like being a Wolverine in Irish Country? All this and more is what we have in store! Enjoy!
The Grace of Giving welcomes, Director of Giving Programs and Marketing Operations, Brandon Tabor to the show! In this episode we get at the heart of the importance of being your true self, no matter the environment, Lawn Care 101, and how Portillo's can possibly be the best restaurant in America. All that and more in this exciting and fun episode. Thanks BT! Rock on!
Oh the fun we had with Program Director for Financial Administration & Strategy, Andrew Frye! In this episode we learn about Andrew's hobby of weed picking with grapes, following orders from the Vatican, and his stealthy techniques of taking photos of Taylor Swift! All this and more! Thanks for visiting with us, Andrew!
It was a pleasure to welcome Minnesotan and Business Systems Analyst Chau-Ly Phan to the Grace of Giving. In this episode we discuss Chau-Ly's travels to Nepal, her love of D&D, and how her mom has been a source of inspiration for her career path. We certainly had an awesome time with you on the show, Chau-ly! Dontcha know!?! :)
The Grace of Giving welcomes Fr. Ralph Haag to the show! In this episode we discuss growing up in Nebraska, how to make the perfect French 75, and the coolest hairstyle ever- the Mullet! Thanks Fr. Ralph!
What do you find at the intersection of a Wheat Ale and Jerry Garcia? His name is Drew Buscareno, and he is the Associate Vice President of University Relations! In this episode, we take a dive into Drew's upbringing in New York, managing a team of dynamic superstars, and his trifecta of love- brewing brew, the Chelsea Football Club, and, you guessed it, The Grateful Dead! Thanks Drew!!!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Academic Advancement Director for the Mendoza College of Business, Natalie Sargent to the show! In this episode we discuss Fighting Irish Felines, early church history, and the fine Cincinnati delicacy known as Skyline Chili. Thanks Natalie!
Grace and James sit down with Program Director of Foundation Relations, Suzanne DeGuilio. In this episode we discuss growing up in "The Region"- Northwest Indiana, her love for the Cubbies, and how her four-legged friend has gained over 13,000 IG followers! Say whaaaaaat? Thanks for visiting with us, Suzanne!
The Grace of Giving welcomes, Senior Regional Director of the Southwest Region, Shelby Carroll to the show! In this episode we discuss leadership style, why Iowa is the greatest state in the union, and our first ever Domer Dog appearance in our Take Five segment. Thanks for being on the show Shelby, and Happy Birthday!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Senior Director of Global and Academic Advancement, Michael Loungo, to the show! It this episode we hear why we learn so much about the United States when we live abroad, why artificial intelligence will never be better than human beings in fundraising, and how a sip of whisky contains an entire history lesson! Thanks for being on the show Michael!
This is a special season with many different holidays, as well as many different ways to celebrate. We want to share the joy and beauty of the variety of traditions and beliefs among our UR colleagues. In that spirit, the latest Grace of Giving podcast episode features Gift Management Coordinator Sara Munoz, Development Coordinator Marcia Hittner, and Alumni Education Programs Director Mary Scott discussing their unique cultural and religious traditions during this most wonderful time of the year.
The Grace of Giving welcomes Regional Director of the Illinois region, Nick Sorg to the podcast! In this episode we cover Nick's adventures in sleep walking, how even talking about roller coasters makes him nauseous, and how he and his wife succeed at raising four boys! Thanks for being on the show, Nick!
In this episode of Grace of Giving, our guest makes a special announcement! We welcome Academic Advancement Director for the Keough School of Global Affairs, Jay McAllister to the show! We learn about the importance of a strong dean/AAD relationship, what having strong women around you can do, and get a brief lesson in the beautiful cityscape known as Pittsburgh. Thanks for joining us Jay!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Director of Donor Communication, Recognition & Stewardship, Jessica Reasons to the show! In this episode we take a deep dive into the mind of the donor as it relates to stewardship, how a simple "no" can sometimes be the best answer, and tips on how to be your best self with fashion. Thanks Jessica!
What fun we had on the Grace of Giving with Academic Advancement Director for the Arts & Architecture, Katy Orenchuk! On this episode we learn about why the arts culture at Notre Dame is so important, not only to the ND community, but the Michiana community as well. We also discuss setting off alarms at museums, and why smoky scotches are simply the best! Thanks Katy!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Regional Director of the East Coast region, Bob Morton! In this episode we discuss enduring faith, the benefits of diversity, and most importantly, pancakes- and not necessarily the kind you eat! Thanks Bob!
The Grace of Giving welcomes Development Coordinator Tashana Kenny to the show! We loved Tashana's holistic approach to healing and well-being in this episode. She talks about the importance of "just breathing and just being" in the context of mental health. If you are a fan of aromatherapy, creating space, and top-notch productivity, you won't want to miss this episode. Thanks for sharing your gifts with us Tashana!
The Grace of Giving welcomes our first married couple to the show- Jennifer and Gavin McGuire! In between laughing hysterically, we discuss the intricacies of working from home AND tending to the kids, Gavin's million-dollar lexicon, and how to spice up your Zoom game during meetings. Thanks for being on the show Jennifer and Gavin!
Grace and James welcome Senior Director of the Illinois Region, Jesse Meyer, to the show. In this episode we learn about the trials and tribulations of the shortest (at 6'2) Meyer son, from bookstore basketball injuries (ouch!) to the importance of separating the work day from personal and family time. Thanks for your leadership, Jesse!
Grace and James have a wonderful conversation with Program Director for Athletics Advancement, Brian Benedict. In this episode we discuss Brian's workout motivation, why summers at ND were better than summers in the Catskills (huh?), and how to consistently wake up at 5am every morning! Thanks for hanging out with us, Brian!
Today the Grace of Giving welcomes colleague Marilyn Bassett to the show! We discuss Marilyn's life before Notre Dame, what she's noticing lately on Zoom meetings, and how having a meeting in the far Northwest could help her accomplish a major milestone. You're a Rockstar, Marilyn!
Grace and James spend a wonderful afternoon with Regional Director of the East Coast Region, Tom Molnar. In this episode, we take a deep dive into why Notre Dame matters to Tom, as he shares his deep faith, love of South Bend, and special advice he's received from fellow colleagues that keeps him hungry and humble. Enjoy!
Grace and James spend an afternoon with Special Events Director Scott Graham as he discusses the ever-popular move from Colorado Springs to Middlebury, fighting the refrigerator during COVID, and how Notre Dame has supported him in his time of need. Thanks Scott!!!
Grace and James make a return to department leadership and sit down with Senior Director of Athletics Advancement, Sara Liebscher, as she makes her transition to Associate Vice President of Development, Executive Director of Individual and Family Giving. Sara shares with us stories of her childhood, how fun it is to live in St. Joe, MI, and why working at Notre Dame has been a dream job for her. Thanks Sara!
Grace and James spend an afternoon with Regional Director of the Southwest Region, Jennifer Witucki to discuss a life-changing airplane conversation, and how a challenge at birth has helped strengthen her faith. You won't want to miss this one!
Grace and James welcome Development Coordinator Alison Dixon to the show. Alison shares with us her life's journey of growing up in Idaho, to living in a tiny house, to being a trauma-sensitive yoga instructor in the Middle East. Yeah, all of that!
James and Grace sit down with Regional Director of the Central Region, Tara Reilly, to discuss how her family's lineage is closely tied to Notre Dame, and how her spirituality keeps her grounded and centered.
In this GoG episode, we sit down with Director of the South Region for Athletics Advancement, Mike Brown, to discuss his illustrious talents in coding, lessons learned in listening to his pastor, and how he tackled a beaver named Benny!
Today's guest is a rare breed, as he is one of approximately only 200,000 in the United States. We sit down with leapling Bill Kempf as he describes how he channels Harry Potter in his relationship-building with donors. Happy Birthday Bill!
Grace and James welcome Ernestine Gardner to the show to discuss her hobbies, and why she chose not to watch the Jeopardy Tournament of Champions.
James and Grace introduce their first call-in guest to the show to discuss knee scopes, the African diaspora, and how paying attention to the details when working with benefactors is the key to success.
Grace and James get cozy with Jay Rizzi to learn all about growing up an SEC fan, what makes him productive, and why a piece of rubber flying at him at 60mph is motivating! All this from his cubicle!
The Grace of Giving Podcast welcomes AVP, Heather Christophersen! We sit down with Heather to discuss being a woman in Engineering, shot glasses, and why listening to grandma's advice could be Golden.
Ever wonder what the VP of University Relations at Notre Dame does on a daily basis? Well tune in to this very first episode of the Grace of Giving Podcast to find out!