PROFILEA Gift for GiftingTwelve years ago, Beth Gentner, CFRE

Keys to success: Tenacity and the ability to listen. "I have a card at my desk that reads, 'If you can read this, you are not out calling on a major donor.' I picked this up at the Institute for Charitable Giving many years ago," Gentner says.

Management philosophy: Developing staff and helping them achieve their professional goals.

How she keeps fundraising fresh: Gentner says she finds that serving as a presenter at development conferences provides opportunities to continue her fundraising education. "The audience always contributes new perspectives and strategies," she explains.

Fundraising project of which she is most proud: Helping to make U.S. Sen. John Glenn's dream — to strengthen interest in public service — a reality. Five years ago, she set up a development office in Ohio to secure private support to fulfill this vision. She was proud to assist the donors who wanted to ensure that Glenn's legacy and his commitment to the future of democracy will endure.

How she thinks those close to her would describe her: Someone with an incredible work ethic who is poised, diplomatic and unbelievably organized.

Sharon R. Cole is a Philadelphia-based freelance writer.