Donna Ciancutti
Donna Ciancutti is a seasoned legal professional serving as Paralegal and Contract Manager for the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), a C6 nonprofit, while also supporting the American College of Endocrinology (ACE), a C3 nonprofit. As an employee of the C6, Donna oversees legal and administrative matters for both organizations, reviewing and managing all incoming contracts, including NDAs, Master Service Agreements, statements of work, independent contractor agreements, grants, memorandums of understanding, hotel contracts, and faculty letters. She drafts, reviews, and negotiates terms on these contracts, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency across both organizations.
In addition to her contract management responsibilities, Donna serves as a trusted paralegal, attending board meetings for both the C3 and C6, preparing minutes, and acting as staff liaison for the bylaws workgroup and the Professional Standards Committee, which oversees conflict-of-interest policies. Her prior roles included supporting ACE delegates for the House of Delegates with the American Medical Association and the Endocrine Section Council. She also manages annual solicitation renewals in 32 states and oversees annuity communications with annuitants and insurance companies. With nearly eight years at ACE, Donna has built a reputation for meticulous legal expertise and proactive organizational support.
Earlier in her career, Donna gained extensive experience at two law firms, including serving as the paralegal for six attorneys, reflecting both her legal knowledge and the trust placed in her by senior counsel. Beyond her professional duties, she has made a meaningful impact in the Jacksonville area by assisting entrepreneurs in forming businesses, filing necessary documents with the Secretary of State, IRS, CMS, and other regulatory agencies. Her dedication to supporting clients, colleagues, and the broader community underscores her commitment to excellence, precision, and service throughout her career.
• Microsoft Office certification
• Living Waters Ranch orphanage in Costa Rica (mission trip and ongoing support)
• Church volunteer activities
• Operation 4 MWD (veteran organization supporting disabled veterans and those returning from military combat)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and support of exceptional mentors throughout my career, combined with my own determination and initiative to pursue this path. Their insights helped shape my approach, while my commitment to learning and taking proactive steps allowed me to turn opportunities into meaningful achievements.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't let anything stop you. If you have a passion or a desire to do something, do it. You can do anything you want to put your mind to. I was once told that I would never succeed as a paralegal because I didn't have the right personality for it. And I can tell you 20-plus years, well, 30 years now, 30-plus years now, I feel like I'm very successful, and I solely run this legal department for two non-profits. You know, there's no attorney. It is just me and the legal department. I do have outside counsel that I work with, but for the most part, I run this legal department solely, and so, you know, I look back to the person that told me that years ago, and I say, you know what, I'm glad I didn't listen to you. So I would tell young women, follow your passion, follow what's in your heart, and don't let anybody tell you you can't. You can.