Patty L. Bowen, CFRE

Patty is excited to have joined KC Pet Project in mid-April 2024. She came to this organization from a strong, non-profit arts background in Kansas City. She has had a lifelong love for animals and their welfare, so her skillset and passion for KC Pet Project’s mission are a perfect fit.

She is a results-oriented professional with decades of success holding leadership positions in major non-profit organizations in Kansas City. Most recently, as Senior Philanthropy Director at one of the premier organizations of its kind in the nation, Friends of Chamber Music KC; and Director of Development for one of the world’s leading independent science research libraries, the Linda Hall Library.

Patty has directed significant individual donations, corporate sponsorship, and in-kind support to major performing arts organizations, health and human services, animal welfare, and science, engineering, and technology in the Greater Kansas City community. Over the past 15 years, she has served as Director, Philanthropic Engagement for United Way of Greater Kansas City; Director of Corporate Relations for our professional ballet company and school, Kansas City Ballet; and Corporate Relations for one of the top orchestras in the US, the Kansas City Symphony. Along the way, she has built and nurtured meaningful individual and business relationships.

Prior to her recruitment into the non-profit sector, Patty enjoyed acquiring more than twelve years of marketing and sponsorship experience while working at for-profit businesses in management and support roles. Those companies included a Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper, The Kansas City Star; our American League Major League Baseball team, the Kansas City Royals, and the historic, Broadway show outdoor venue, Starlight Theater.

Patty earned her fundraising education through her CFRE International certification on June 1, 2022. This credential has only been awarded to those who complete an extensive application and approval process, followed by a formal exam. A CFRE is focused on not only education, but professional practice and performance. Patty’s business education was gained through a decade of hands-on experience working for a management leadership consulting firm, Schuster, Kane and Stevenin, and through other career growth opportunities. Her early work through commitment, training, and one-on-one education from mentors helped build her well-rounded skillset, a
high ethical focus, and commitment to excellence.

Patty has also managed volunteer groups in various positions throughout the years, and volunteers for causes that are important to her. She has served on several non-profit committees, was a volunteer board member for Shepherd’s Center Kansas City for three years, and for the LUMI Neon Museum Board of Directors for three years as well, and now serves in an Advisory capacity for LUMI.

Patty is a native of Kansas City and lives in the Northland with her husband. She enjoys time with their grown daughter and fiancé, traveling and cruises, neighborhood pool time, Mexican food, and their rescue Chihuahua, Betty White.

Favorite quote: “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” BT Washington