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M.J. Prest

Senior Editor, Solutions

M.J. Prest is senior editor for solutions at the Chronicle of Philanthropy, where she highlights how nonprofit leaders navigate and overcome major challenges. She has covered stories on big gifts, grant making, and executive moves for the Chronicle since 2004. Her work has also appeared in the Washington Post, Slate.com, and the Huffington Post, and she wrote the young-adult novel Immersion. M.J. graduated from Williams College and after living in many different places, she settled in New England with her husband, two kids, and two rescue dogs.

Your Data Has 3 Seconds to Hook a Donor. Make Them Count.

Your Data Has 3 Seconds to Hook a Donor. Make Them Count.

Expert advice on pairing data visualization and storytelling to win over donors and other key stakeholders.

Want an Unrestricted Grant? Here Are 7 Ways to Stand Out to Funders.

Want an Unrestricted Grant? Here Are 7 Ways to Stand Out to Funders.

Winning general operating support starts long before the proposal. Four experts explain how to build the reputation foundations look for.

Can’t Afford an Executive? Hire One Part Time.

Can’t Afford an Executive? Hire One Part Time.

Fractional executives let small and midsize nonprofits punch above their weight by bringing in senior talent at a deep discount. Here's how it works.

How St. Jude Raised $4.5 Billion in Bequests in a Decade

How St. Jude Raised $4.5 Billion in Bequests in a Decade

Leaders say trust, technology, and high-touch relationships are the keys to building a planned-giving powerhouse.

Tax Changes Drove a DAF Boom. Here’s How to Unlock More Giving.

Tax Changes Drove a DAF Boom. Here’s How to Unlock More Giving.

With DAF assets at an all-time high, experts share proven ways to reach donors and move them to give.

How AI Can Help You Find — and Win — More Grants

How AI Can Help You Find — and Win — More Grants

Use the newest smart tools to discover new funders, write stronger proposals, and improve grant-seeking efficiency.

Overhead view of six diverse business professionals forming a circle on a tiled floor, with two women shaking hands in the center.

Win Over Corporate Donors Amid Tax Changes

New tax rules are reshaping corporate giving. Experts offer strategies to strengthen partnerships this year.

5 Ways to Grow Your Planned Gifts

5 Ways to Grow Your Planned Gifts

Experts share practical ways to make your legacy-giving program thrive.

A silhouette illustration shows a person with a briefcase walking up black steps. A large hand places the next step in front of them, against an orange and yellow background with a bright sun.

An Executive Coach Can Transform Your Career. Here’s How to Find One.

Executive coaches can help nonprofit leaders build skills and feel supported. These tips will get you the best return on your investment of time and money.

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How to Bridge a Funding Gap

A strategic reserve fund mobilizes money and appeals to entrepreneurial donors. Is it the right solution for your nonprofit?