(Caption: Kyle & Chloe Lucca, Joe (holding grandson Joey Lucca) & Bev Neisler, Cait Geringer & Wyatt Neisler – Photo by Kate Spencer Photography)
A Life of Philanthropy and Faith: Beverly Neisler’s Inspiring Journey
After an illustrious 38-year career dedicated to philanthropy, Beverly Neisler has retired—but not slowed down. Her path, which began with an unexpected suggestion to enter fundraising, became a calling that shaped countless lives and organizations. Beverly’s story is a testament to dedication, faith, and family values, woven into a lifetime of service.
From Admissions to Philanthropy
Beverly started her professional journey as an admissions counselor at Springfield College in Illinois, where she discovered a passion for connecting with people. Encouraged by the college president to explore fundraising, she transitioned to her first development role at SPARC. Her work there laid the foundation for a career spent helping organizations grow and thrive.
At SPARC, Beverly attended the renowned Fundraising School at Indiana University, an experience she credits as pivotal to her training. Her early projects ignited a passion for philanthropy, setting her on a trajectory toward leadership roles in larger institutions.
Building Legacies at Springfield Institutions
Over the years, Beverly’s contributions became integral to major institutions across central Illinois, including Memorial Medical Center, Lincoln Land Community College, Sacred Heart-Griffin High School, and HSHS St. John’s Hospital. Whether raising funds for student scholarships, healthcare facilities, or athletic complexes, Beverly consistently demonstrated her expertise and commitment to community betterment.
One of her most notable achievements was the $24 million “Imagine Tomorrow” campaign for HSHS St. John’s, completed 14 months ahead of schedule. The campaign transformed critical facilities like the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, underscoring Beverly’s ability to align donor passions with organizational needs.
Faith and Family: The Heart of Her Mission
For Beverly, faith played a central role in her work, serving as a grounding force during both challenges and triumphs. Her deep belief in the mission of the organizations she served inspired her to persevere through the demanding, often unpredictable world of philanthropy. She describes her career not as a job but as a lifestyle—a reflection of her dedication to the causes she championed.
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Her family has been her steadfast support system. Married for over 40 years, Beverly credits her husband, Joe for unwavering encouragement and partnership. Together, they raised two children, Chloe and Wyatt, both of whom inherited their parents’ values of service and excellence. Beverly beams with pride as her daughter follows in her footsteps as Director of Development at the Central Illinois Food Bank.
A New Chapter: Leadership 411
Retirement is anything but idle for Beverly. Anticipating the next stage of her journey, she launched Leadership 411, an LLC focused on leadership training, nonprofit capacity-building, and philanthropy. Already engaged with local organizations like the Animal Protective League and Compass for Kids, Beverly continues to invest her knowledge and passion in strengthening her community.
A Legacy of Service
Looking back, Beverly reflects on her career with gratitude, emphasizing the joy of serving missions that inspire. Her story, filled with milestones and heartfelt connections, exemplifies the power of philanthropy to transform both individuals and communities. In her own words, “Every dollar counts. It’s about bringing people together to make an impact.”
As Beverly embarks on this new chapter, her journey remains a beacon of hope and purpose—a reminder that faith, family, and service are the cornerstones of a life well-lived.
You can reach Beverly Neisler, M.A., CFRE at bev@leadership411.com and/or view her profile at https:/www.linkedin.com/in/beverly-neisler-cfre
