Catherine Avena
Catherine Avena is an advancement services leader with more than 30 years of experience in donor data systems and fundraising operations. Her professional identity is shaped by over twenty‑five years in Jesuit ministries, including ten years with the USA Midwest Jesuits Province and fifteen years at Saint Ignatius College Prep, where she led CRM administration, donor records, gift processing, financial reconciliation, data governance, donor stewardship, prospect research, and direct mail strategy.
Earlier roles at Saint Francis Hospital Foundation, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Chicago Province Development Office broadened her understanding of donor behavior and mission‑aligned fundraising. Recognized for her expertise in Blackbaud CRM, she is known for translating complex data into clear, actionable insights that strengthen donor engagement and operational effectiveness.
Catherine brings this depth of experience to the National Benevolent Association as Senior Development Associate, advising on CRM optimization, data governance, direct mail strategy, prospect research, and donor pipeline development. She hopes to have a hands-on collaboration with the Development and Marketing team in translating complex data into clear, actionable insights that strengthen donor relationships and support organizational fundraising goals and mission.
Getting to know Catherine
Why do you feel “called to care” about Disciples health and social service ministry?
I feel called to care about health and social service ministry because my faith has always drawn me toward work that upholds dignity, compassion, and justice. Even though my vocation is in backend support — building systems, strengthening data integrity, and ensuring that the work behind the scenes is trustworthy — I see that work as a form of ministry. The NBA’s commitment to accompanying communities, advancing equity, and nurturing healing reflects the kind of faith‑rooted service I feel called to champion. Supporting this mission, even from the background, feels like a meaningful way to live out my values and contribute to the flourishing of others.
Who is a hero of yours, and why?
My heroes are the caregivers who selflessly care for our loved ones — especially those who set aside their own careers, dreams, and personal plans to tend to a parent, a spouse, a relative, or a friend. To me, that kind of sacrifice is one of the purest expressions of unconditional love. I hold deep gratitude for my own family, who lovingly care for my aging mother while I am a world away from her in her golden years. Their devotion humbles me and inspires me every day.
If I tried to find you in a supermarket, what aisle would you be in?
If you tried to find me in a supermarket, you’d definitely spot me in the Asian–Filipino aisle — the one with all the good stuff. I’d be happily debating which brand of tocino tastes closest to home, loading up on longanisa, and sneaking a bag (or three) of snacks into the cart. And if there’s siopao in the freezer section, that’s it — that’s where I’ll be parked, feeling a little homesick but comforted by the flavors that raised me.
