Kurstin is a staunch believer in the power of education to change the world. This conviction has driven a 20+ year career as a fundraiser, teacher, mentor and writer. She has honed her skills in some of the US and UK’s most renowned universities, priding herself on her ability to help institutions meet their financial goals and build strong, sustainable philanthropic cultures.

Kurstin’s fundraising experience, launched as Director of Advancement Operations at Linfield University on the west coast of the USA, now spans campaign management, major and principal gifts, regular giving, operations, event management, supporter care and legacies. In addition to her role as Senior Partner with Cairney & Company she has had senior roles with the Dogs Trust, the Royal Academy of Music, the University of Aberdeen, Imperial College London and the University of St Andrews.

When not fundraising, Kurstin can be found volunteering throughout the sector, and was recently recognised as a Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Laureate and Crystal Apple winner for her contributions to training and service to philanthropy.