Overview

Stefan Romberg is a senior fundraising and philanthropic strategy leader who advises mission-driven organizations on growth, fundraising initiatives, and development infrastructure. With two decades of experience—much of it in executive leadership—he partners with boards, CEOs, and development teams to design practical, values-aligned fundraising strategies that strengthen institutions for long-term impact. At the Center for American Progress (CAP), one of the country’s most influential public policy organizations, he served on the executive committee while overseeing complex revenue operations. Stefan brings a strengths-based leadership style, a candid and thoughtful approach to donor engagement, and a deep belief that a thriving civic sector—including education, public policy, direct services, and independent journalism—is essential to a healthy democracy.

Background

Stefan most recently served as Chief Development Officer at CAP and CAP Action Fund, where he oversaw more than $50 million in annual revenue and helped guide organizational strategy as a member of the executive team. During his previous tenure as CAP’s Vice President for Strategic Partnerships, foundation support grew by more than 65 percent, reflecting a redesigned development structure and a more agile model for securing both general operating and initiative-based support.

In addition to leading fundraising strategy, Stefan has partnered closely with non-profit leaders to strengthen governance processes, support board recruitment, and align philanthropic growth with evolving policy priorities. His experience operating at the intersection of fundraising, program strategy, and executive leadership enables him to advise clients not only on development tactics, but also on how fundraising strategy connects to institutional positioning and long-term sustainability.

Earlier, as Director of Institutional Giving at Southern California Public Radio (KPCC & LAist), Stefan advanced institutional fundraising strategy in support of a $55 million capital campaign and helped secure philanthropic investment in innovative public service journalism initiatives. Across his career, he has led fundraising assessments, restructured development teams, and coached executive and program leaders to become effective partners in major donor and institutional support strategies.

Nonprofit Experience

• Center for American Progress & Center for American Progress Action Fund
• Southern California Public Radio (KPCC & LAist)
• National Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
• TrueChild

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Minor in English – University of Tennessee