​​Colton C. Strawser started his philanthropic journey at the age of 14 when he became director of marketing/fundraising for a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth and computer literacy. He later became the organization’s executive director and, under his leadership, the organization expanded from serving one county in Northeast Indiana to serving seven counties in the region in under four years.

Prior to transitioning to consulting full-time, Dr. Strawser was a professor of philanthropy and an accomplished nonprofit management and philanthropic studies scholar. He has taught university-level courses on nonprofit management, philanthropy, fundraising, community development, and program evaluation. Strawser has published several book chapters, reports, papers, and articles that seek to bridge theory and practice within the context of the nonprofit sector. His academic works can be found at www.cstrawser.com.

Dr. Strawser is a Certified Fund Raising Professional and Certified Nonprofit Professional. He has also completed a Certificate of Nonprofit Board Consulting through BoardSource and is a Master Trainer through the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

​​​Strawser is the recipient of five Presidential Volunteer Service Awards (including earning a lifetime achievement award for over 4,000 hours of community service at 21 years old), a Daily Point of Light Award, a William M. Plater Civic Engagement Medallion (IUPUI) and was recognized through the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards.