Assistant Director of Advancement Named Outstanding Fundraising Professional in Hampton Roads

Congratulations to Melissa Hlinovsky '02, who was named this year's Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Hampton Roads Chapter!

Mrs. Hlinovsky received this honor during AFP-Hampton Roads' National Philanthropy Day celebration, which recognizes the impact of philanthropists and fundraisers throughout Hampton Roads. Each year at this event, AFP-Hampton Roads presents its Outstanding Fundraising Professional award to an individual who radically supports and sustains the mission of their organization through the development of resources and relationships. Their leadership has helped the organization they have worked with to achieve significant increases in return on fundraising investment, to introduce creative and innovative ideas to reach new donors and to elevate ethical practices in fundraising. Award-winners have also demonstrated commitment to fundraising and philanthropy through volunteer service and financial support of nonprofit organizations in Hampton Roads.

Since joining NSA's Office of Advancement in 2006, Mrs. Hlinovsky has become one of the most respected and effective fundraising professionals in the region. Her strategic insight, unwavering work ethic and ability to inspire others have transformed NSA's advancement program and contributed to a stronger culture of philanthropy across the community.

Mrs. Hlinovsky started at NSA as special events coordinator, and she has since held every role in the Office of Advancement. In an industry where average tenure spans only three to five years, her nearly 20-year commitment is extraordinary, and her impact is undeniable.

In her time in the Office of Advancement, Mrs. Hlinovsky has helped raise more than $30 million for NSA through annual giving, capital campaigns and special events. One of her most visible and beloved successes is the annual Art Show and Sale, which she oversees entirely. She led the event through major changes, including a fully virtual format during the pandemic that still generated $93,000. She later introduced a hybrid model that combined virtual and in-person shopping, producing $166,000 in sales. Earlier this year, she broke all previous Art Show and Sale records with $209,000 in inventory sold, providing more than $90,000 for NSA's visual and performing arts programs. Mrs. Hlinovsky's contributions extend far beyond event management. She also oversees the Annual Fund campaign, manages the Development Advisory Committee, mentors staff and guides day-to-day advancement operations.

Mrs. Hlinovsky's commitment to ethical, transparent and donor-centric fundraising has strengthened NSA's advancement efforts and continues to guide the school's approach to meaningful stewardship. She integrates data-informed decision-making with thoughtful relationship-building, ensuring that each campaign reflects NSA's values while achieving measurable results. Her work is a model for how values and performance go hand-in-hand.

Mrs. Hlinovsky's leadership extends beyond NSA. A 12-year member of AFP-Hampton Roads, she has served as board secretary and currently co-chairs the revitalized mentoring program, which helps emerging fundraising professionals. She actively supports the Be the Cause Campaign, shares best practices with other independent schools through the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and co-presented with Director of Advancement Kenda Council '91 at the Virginia Fundraising Institute on "Winning in Fundraising." She is deeply respected by her peers for her knowledge, generosity and commitment to advancing the profession.

Beyond Mrs. Hlinovsky's professional work, she demonstrates a personal commitment to service. She donates to the causes she champions, mentors colleagues and volunteers and consistently brings energy, clarity and heart to every initiative. Her presence inspires others, whether she's guiding a volunteer team, training emerging professionals or leading a high-stakes campaign.

Mrs. Hlinovsky is a game-changer not just for NSA, but for the Hampton Roads philanthropic community. She has led transformational fundraising efforts, championed ethical standards, empowered new fundraisers and stayed unwaveringly committed to the causes close to her heart. Recognizing her with the Outstanding Fundraising Professional award honors her sustained impact, vision and dedication to building a stronger, more vibrant community.

Kudos to Mrs. Hlinovsky for this incredible accomplishment! Go Saints!