Hello

My Story

My work has always centered on one question: how can leadership, generosity, and strategy come together to create lasting impact?

My career spans more than four decades at the intersection of philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and executive advisory. I began in the United Way system, where I spent twenty-four years shaping community-based impact strategies across the Pacific Northwest. My tenure culminated in fourteen years as President and CEO of United Way of Pierce County in Tacoma, Washington, leading one of the region’s most influential community organizations through a period of growth, partnership expansion, and measurable results.

In 1993, I founded Hagel & Company, bringing my experience into the executive search and advisory space. Over the years, I have worked closely with more than two hundred nonprofit boards and leadership teams, helping organizations identify and develop the kind of leadership that not only performs, but endures.

My approach is grounded in experience, collaboration, and discipline.

Beyond my professional work, I have remained deeply engaged in civic and nonprofit leadership. I have served in numerous governance roles, including:

• Board member and Governance Committee Chair, 501 Commons (12+ years) 
• Past President, Tacoma Community College Foundation 
• Visiting Committee member (two terms), Seattle University Executive Master’s Program in Not-For-Profit Leadership 
• Board member (12+ years), Tacoma Symphony 
• Founding Board and Executive Committee member, Tacoma Safe Streets Campaign 
• Board and Executive Committee member, Washington Gives 
• Chair, City of Edgewood Planning Commission 

These roles reflect my commitment not just to advising organizations, but to serving them from the inside.

I am a native of Yakima, Washington, and a graduate of Central Washington University, where I earned a BA in Economics and Political Science. I hold the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) designation from the American College of Financial Services, reflecting advanced expertise in integrating charitable planning with financial and estate strategy.

Today, through Hagel Philanthropy, I work with donors, families, foundations, and nonprofit organizations who want their giving—and their leadership—to matter in enduring ways.