- Board of Directors
DaNay Kalkowski
Meet DaNay
We’re excited to introduce DaNay Kalkowski as the Catholic Foundation’s newly elected Treasurer, a role she’s stepping into with a wealth of professional expertise and deep dedication to our mission. As a founding member of Seacrest & Kalkowski, a Lincoln-based law firm, DaNay has built a career on strategic planning and community-centered solutions that align with her new responsibilities.
“DaNay Kalkowski is a passionate donor to the Church and supporter of the Catholic Foundation, and she brings a distinctive viewpoint to our board,” says our Executive Director, Chris Raun. “DaNay understands the diverse backgrounds of Catholic individuals, both rural and urban, who are committed to supporting the mission of the Church.” We asked DaNay about her motivation to champion the Foundation and how her experiences have shaped her own charitable giving.
Q: What inspired you to join the Catholic Foundation Board, and how has your background influenced your contributions?
A: When I was asked to join the Catholic Foundation Board, it was easy to say “yes.” I wanted to support the great work that the Foundation was already doing, and the Board is actively involved in helping it grow, providing even more service to the members of our Catholic community. While I live and practice law in an urban environment, I grew up in rural Nebraska, where my family continues to ranch. I enjoy using my life experience and expertise garnered in both environments to provide guidance and input to the Board.
Q: As a leader of the Foundation, what do you believe are the most critical qualities required to effectively serve as an ambassador in your local community?
A: You must have a sincere desire to serve and a strong passion for and commitment to your Catholic faith and the mission of the Foundation.
Q: Can you share some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had while working with the Foundation and connecting with donors?
A: As a Board member, it’s been rewarding to learn about all of the different ways the Foundation helps facilitate generosity. The Planned Giving Officers are able to listen to the desires of individuals to give, and maybe even more importantly, they help donors evaluate their options for making gifts. Then, they help facilitate the actual gifts.
My husband and I have been able to work with the Foundation to establish a Donor Advised Fund, which we support with gifts of agricultural products. The tools available through the Foundation have allowed us to increase our generosity and are available for others to utilize as well.
Q: What are some key challenges you’ve encountered in your roles, and how have you and the board worked to overcome them?
A: The Board is challenged with assuring the funds of the Foundation are managed independently–and with the utmost integrity and in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Effective communication is instrumental in making sure the Board works cohesively to carry out the mission of the Foundation.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the future of the Catholic Foundation, and how do you see the board’s role evolving to meet new challenges and opportunities?
A: My hope is that the Foundation continues to grow year-over-year in the number of donors it helps to achieve its goals, as well as to grow the distributions made to charitable Catholic organizations. The Board can help guide the Foundation to meet not only the new challenges but also opportunities that will come with the passage of time.
A Future Focused on Growth and Integrity
DaNay’s dedication to the Catholic Foundation’s mission, coupled with her diverse background and commitment to sound financial management, makes her an ideal Treasurer. Her vision for continued growth, coupled with the board’s focus on integrity and adherence to Catholic values, promises a bright future for the Foundation and its ability to support the Catholic community.
