Executive Vice President, Crescendo Interactive

Kristen Jaarda is Executive Vice President of Crescendo Interactive. Over the last 17 years, Kristen has worked with hundreds of nonprofits of all types and sizes, equipping them to raise millions of dollars in support for their charitable causes. She has extensive expertise in technology and donor marketing including the development of innovative fundraising applications and use of digital media (web, email and social media) for major and planned gifts. Kristen also is experienced at advising nonprofit clients on gifts of simple to complex asset and advanced charitable planning strategies.

Kristen is a nationally recognized speaker and nonprofit trainer. She has served in leadership positions on numerous nonprofit and industry boards including the American Council on Gift Annuities, Planned Giving Today and the Los Angeles Council of Charitable Gift Planners. Kristen is frequently quoted as a nonprofit giving expert in publications including the Chronicle of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Times. She is the author of over 30 original publications and six national philanthropy studies.

Kristen began her career in Washington D.C. as a tax-exempt organizations attorney and national counsel to education institutions. She holds a J.D, from the UCLA School of Law and a Tax LL.M. from Loyola School of Law. She is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP)®.