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Q& A with Dan Dougherty, Shipley’s New Associate Director of Annual Giving

Tell us about yourself.
I’m originally from Horsham, graduated from Lansdale Catholic High School and Temple University. I’ve spent the majority of my career working in Development for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and I currently live in Spring City with my wife and 8-year-old son. I believe strongly in volunteerism and serve on the PTA board at my son’s elementary school and am an elected committee person for my local area precinct. 
 
What are your signature strengths? 
Self-regulation, Gratitude, Hope, Judgment, and Curiosity.
 
Why did you choose to go into development work and why have you dedicated your career to it?
I originally wanted to pursue a career in politics, but my first job out of college was in development. I found that I really enjoyed the variety of skills I was able to use in fundraising and that working for a non-profit provided a real sense of meaning to the work I was doing every day. In addition, given that development work is very relationship driven, I get the opportunity to meet many new people, which is something that I really enjoy. 
 
Who or what inspires you?
I draw inspiration from people in my everyday life, especially my family. 
 
What appealed to you about working at Shipley?
Shipley was appealing to me because I felt it was a place where I could learn and grow. This was affirmed for me by the professionalism and sincerity I experienced during my interview process. 
 
What are you most excited for in your new position?
I am most excited about the opportunity to collaborate on new ideas and bring my past experience to Shipley that will hopefully make an impact. 
 
What is something you have done in your career or life that you are really proud of? 
In my career, I am really proud of the fact I was part of a successful $200 million capital campaign for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. 
 
What do you do for fun or to relax?
I like to be outdoors, taking my dog for a walk or playing with my son, and I can’t let a day go by without picking up my guitar. 
 
What are you currently watching/reading/listening to?
I don’t watch much TV, but I try not to miss Jeopardy. I like to read news articles and current events, and I’m almost always listening to a wide variety of music. 
 
What was it like to start your job during the pandemic lockdown?
It was definitely an interesting time to start a new job, but given the circumstances, I felt very welcome, and that I was part of the team immediately. The most challenging part was not being able to experience campus life at Shipley or meet my new colleagues in person.
 
What are people surprised to learn about you?
I think most often people are surprised to learn I’m the middle of five children. 
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The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.