Darrel Drobnich
Rockville
Summary
A uniquely qualified, results-focused nonprofit executive with extensive experience advancing organizational missions and programmatic, policy, and communications goals through enthusiastic revenue generation and stakeholder engagement. More than 25 years of experience translating complex issues into fundraising, public awareness, and advocacy initiatives in both the non-profit sector and the U.S. Senate. Innovative, “out-of-the-box” thinker, adept at leveraging the diverse resources within and available to organizations to develop them into established, sought-after thought leaders in advancing their mission and influencing public opinion.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Director of Development and Communications
MY SISTER’S PLACE
Washington
01.2025 - 09.2025
- Spearheaded fundraising and communications initiatives for a $9M+ nonprofit dedicated to eradicating domestic violence.
- Secured increased city funding from the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants during a time when the city is facing severe cuts. A total of $3,805,745 for FY 26.
- Developed and implemented multi-year strategies to align with organizational growth goals.
- Cultivated relationships with donors and strategic partners, enhancing institutional giving and event success.
- Mentored a high-performing team of six, promoting professional development and accountability.
Vice President of Institutional Advancement
JUBILEE HOUSING
Washington
05.2023 - 12.2024
- Spearheaded strategy and design of funding and communications programs to support $10 million budget.
- Increased corporate, major donor, and grant funding to address significant budget deficit over 18 months.
- Secured first federal multi-year grant of $750,000 for three years.
- Collaborated with CEO, COO, and executive team to develop strategies supporting expanding organizational goals.
- Led leadership council initiatives to enhance organizational visibility and support.
- Recruited new business leaders to invigorate committee engagement and broaden networks.
- Developed and managed three fundraising events, achieving highest success in organizational history.
President
CAPITOLA CONSULTING
Washington
08.2010 - 05.2023
- Secured $450,000 from Gates Ventures for Alzheimer's policy advancements.
- Spearheaded initiatives leading to a $2.5 million contract with the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.
- Guided American Sleep Apnea Association out of debt, raising over $3 million within 18 months.
- Established robust foundation grant pipelines through strategic prospect research and proposal submissions.
- Led efforts in obtaining a five-year, $300,000 annual agreement with CDC for brain health equity.
- Directed donor engagement strategies, actively increasing funds for community organizations.
- Implemented change management principles achieving healthier start times for 57,000 students in Fairfax County.
- Provided expertise in coalition building and government relations to enhance organizational growth.
Chief Program Officer
NATIONAL SLEEP FOUNDATION
Washington
01.2006 - 01.2010
- Directed comprehensive portfolio of fundraising, public policy, education, and research programs to advance organizational goals.
- Managed staff, vendors, and volunteers effectively to optimize program delivery.
- Collaborated with leadership to generate over $7 million annually through diverse funding sources.
- Oversaw development of national public awareness and fundraising initiatives.
- Secured extensive media coverage and established strategic partnerships with key stakeholders.
- Authored and managed over 20 federal grants alongside numerous foundation and corporate proposals.
- Spearheaded federal funding initiative for new sleep health epidemiology program, securing $1.5 million through five-year agreement.
- Expanded organization's influence in public health, medical research, and regulatory issues across multiple sectors.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History, English, Psychology
University of Michigan
07-1990
Skills
- Managerial leadership
- Grant writing and management
- Corporate partnerships
- Major donor development
- Media relations and communications
- Government affairs and advocacy
- Strategic planning
- Change management
- Program development
- Social media strategy
- Grassroots coalition building
Volunteer Boards Committees
- Senior Advisor, Start School Later, Inc.
- Ambassador, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
- Former Chair, Montgomery County Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Traffic Safety Advisory Committee
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Senior Director of Development and Communications
MY SISTER’S PLACE
01.2025 - 09.2025
Vice President of Institutional Advancement
JUBILEE HOUSING
05.2023 - 12.2024
President
CAPITOLA CONSULTING
08.2010 - 05.2023
Chief Program Officer
NATIONAL SLEEP FOUNDATION
01.2006 - 01.2010
Bachelor of Arts - History, English, Psychology
University of Michigan