Our Focus is Your Results

The power of our service is results. In an increasingly competitive and highly challenging environment for education, we are committed to helping you design and adapt programs built upon a foundation of clear communications and knowledgeable data analysis. We employ critical thinking, planning and collaboration as the basis for the strategies we help you develop. We bring our knowledge and practical experience as leaders, managers and teachers to help you in strategic planning, development, alumni and donor relations, marketing, and board, staff and volunteer development.

In partnership with you, we define problems and opportunities, develop written plans and critical paths, determine metrics and milestones, and focus on bottom line results. We offer specific analytical thinking and imaginative, non-mechanical response to each assignment. We work collaboratively with you and your colleagues to determine the best plan for your institution and then work with you to implement that plan. We help you make mid-course corrections and to deal with leadership transitions and unexpected circumstances.

We have contributed to the success of more than 250 educational clients around the world. We invite you to speak with any of our current or former clients about our work.

A Track Record of Success

Washburn & McGoldrick helps colleges, universities and independent schools successfully seek philanthropic support and create lasting relationships.  Sue Washburn and Bill McGoldrick founded the firm in 1995. Karin George and Bonnie Devlin co-led it from 2015 – 2023. In 2024, as the firm approaches its 30th anniversary year, it is co-led by Bonnie Devlin and Carla Willis.

Our consultants are leaders in education, and we focus on campaign planning and execution, alumni surveys, advancement officer training, program assessment, strategic planning, gift planning, alumni engagement, external relations, institutional leadership, trusteeship and governance.