Courtney Voigt
Courtney Voigt has dedicated her career to strengthening nonprofits and amplifying missions that make a lasting difference. With over a decade of experience in development, marketing, and strategic fundraising, she has built a reputation for connecting purpose with strategy and results with impact.
As Chief Development Officer at the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter, Courtney leads efforts to expand the organization’s fundraising capacity, cultivate meaningful donor relationships, and inspire community investment in the lives of children who have experienced trauma. Her expertise spans major gifts, grant writing, planned giving, and corporate partnerships—each rooted in a deep understanding of how relationships drive change.
Before joining the Shelter, Courtney advanced the missions of CASA of Northwest Arkansas and the Pi Beta Phi Foundation, where she successfully managed donor portfolios, developed signature fundraising initiatives, and championed sustainable growth.
Courtney holds a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management and Fund Development and a Bachelor of Innovation in Business Marketing from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. She is known for her ability to blend vision with execution, empowering teams and donors alike to move from intention to impact.
At her core, Courtney believes leadership is about creating spaces where compassion and excellence coexist—and where every action contributes to a more hopeful future for others.
• Wedding & Event Planning
• University of Colorado Colorado Springs-Masters
• Association of Fundraising Professionals
• Northwest Arkansas Women's Shelter
• CASA of NWA
• Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Womwn
What do you attribute your success to?
My success stems from a deep belief in the power of connection and opportunity. I’ve always been driven by the chance to help others grow—whether by providing access to resources, inspiring confidence, or expanding possibilities. Watching lives change because someone cared enough to make a difference is what fuels everything I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to never lose sight of your ‘why.’ In the nonprofit world, it’s easy to get caught up in deadlines and goals, but remembering the people and stories behind the mission keeps everything in perspective. It’s what keeps me passionate and grounded, even on the hardest days.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the nonprofit and fundraising space is to find your people, those who will mentor, encourage, and believe in you even when you doubt yourself. A trusted mentor can offer invaluable perspective, share lessons learned, and help you navigate both challenges and opportunities with confidence. The nonprofit world can be demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who share your passion and values - they will help you stay grounded in your purpose and grow into the leader you are meant to be.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The field of philanthropy is evolving rapidly, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities. Corporations are changing how they sponsor and engage with nonprofits, prioritizing strategic partnerships, measurable impact, and alignment with social values. At the same time, different generations approach giving and philanthropy in unique ways, meaning nonprofits must communicate effectively across age groups. A one-size-fits-all approach no longer works. Organizations are also expected to operate like for-profits in some ways, delivering personalized experiences for donors and constituents while managing tight budgets. Amid these shifts, the unprecedented “Great Wealth Transfer” represents a historic opportunity: women are poised to inherit and control the majority of an estimated $124 trillion in assets over the coming decades. For nonprofits that can adapt, there is tremendous potential to expand support, engage new audiences, and create lasting impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In both my work and personal life, I value authenticity, connection, and purpose. I am driven by passion and a commitment to making a meaningful impact, while also prioritizing balance, stability, and autonomy. Lifelong learning is central to how I stay inspired—whether through reading, listening to audiobooks, or exploring new experiences. I also embrace adventure, finding joy in simple moments that recharge me, whether it’s out on the water with my husband, walking our two dogs, or trying a new recipe in the kitchen. These values guide how I lead, create, and engage in the world around me.