NORFOLK, Neb. — When deciding whether to attend a four-year institution or begin his education closer to home, Northeast Community College alumnus Jeff McGinn chose Northeast, a decision he says helped shape both his educational journey and professional career.
A Norfolk native and graduate of Norfolk High School, McGinn credits Northeast's supportive faculty, small class sizes, and personalized learning environment with helping him identify a career path centered on serving others.
"I always tell people that starting at a community college was one of the best decisions I could have made," McGinn said. "The professors, advisors, and staff truly cared about your success. They took the time to understand your goals and helped create an experience that prepared you for what came next."
After completing his studies at Northeast, McGinn earned a bachelor's degree from Bellevue University and later a master's degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
While academics provided a strong foundation, some of his most memorable experiences came from the relationships he built while attending Northeast.
"The people were incredible," McGinn said. "Many of the friendships I built at Northeast are friendships I still have today."
As an avid musician, McGinn spent time in Northeast's audio recording studios collaborating with students in the audio recording program.
"We would stay up all night recording music," he said. "Some of my closest friendships came from those experiences."
Although he studied corrections at Northeast, his professional path ultimately led him to philanthropy. His interest in helping others first drew him to corrections and social services before he discovered a passion for fundraising and community impact.
His professional career began in corporate social responsibility, where he worked with nonprofit organizations and employee giving initiatives. That experience sparked an interest in philanthropy that has guided his career.
Today, McGinn serves as vice president of system philanthropy for the Eventide Foundation, overseeing fundraising efforts and foundation operations across Nebraska, Minnesota, and North Dakota. In that role, he recently led the integration of two legacy healthcare foundations into a unified multistate fundraising program, aligning donor engagement, development operations, and philanthropic strategy across the organization.
"I chose healthcare philanthropy because it combines two things I care deeply about: people and purpose," McGinn said. "I enjoy building meaningful relationships with donors and families and helping them invest in causes that improve health and quality of life."
Throughout his career, McGinn has contributed to a variety of successful fundraising initiatives. His accomplishments include leading a university fundraising team that generated $17.8 million annually, directing a Giving Day campaign that raised $12.7 million, helping secure a $5 million corporate gift for United Way of Dane County, WI, and supporting a centennial campaign that raised nearly $60 million over a two-year period.
"It was one of the most challenging projects I've been part of, but it taught me so much about leadership, strategy, and building partnerships," McGinn said of the United Way campaign.
McGinn's contributions to the profession were recognized this year when he received the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy's 40 Under 40 Award. The international honor recognizes emerging leaders who are making significant contributions to healthcare philanthropy through innovation, leadership, and organizational impact.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, McGinn remains dedicated to lifelong learning. He serves as an instructor in fundraising management programs, mentors emerging professionals, and regularly pursues professional development opportunities and industry certifications.
"Never stop learning," he said. "That's something that has stayed with me throughout my career."
When asked what advice he would offer those entering the profession, McGinn emphasized the importance of mentorship and relationship building.
"Seek out peers and mentors, ask questions, and stay curious," he said. "While we may work for different organizations, we're united by a common mission to improve the health of our communities."
When not working, McGinn enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, golfing, biking, and continuing his personal and professional education.
Reflecting on his time at Northeast, he said the college played an important role in preparing him for future success.
"Northeast gave me the opportunity to learn, ask questions, build relationships, and grow," McGinn said. "It was an environment where people genuinely cared about students and wanted to see them succeed."
For current and future Northeast students, his advice remains simple:
"Get involved, build relationships, seek out mentors, and stay curious. The connections you make and the opportunities you embrace can open doors you never expected."
Nearly two decades after attending Northeast, McGinn continues to build a career focused on service, leadership, and helping others make a positive impact in their communities.
Northeast Community College encourages all alumni to share their stories by visiting northeast.edu/giving/alumni. Alumni are also encouraged to join the Northeast Community College Alumni Association group on LinkedIn by visiting www.linkedin.com/groups/1996723/.
