Dan Thompson possesses three decades of experience working with leading nonprofits and major donors, always aiming to align the philanthropic intent of donors, community stakeholders and nonprofits to advance meaningful philanthropy. Dan is an accomplished professional with demonstrated ability to synthesize and process complex challenges, to develop strategic plans, and employ smart business practices to execute and accomplish key objectives.
Having most recently served as Vice President at the Ascension Saint Thomas Foundation, Thompson was responsible for over $100M million dollars in assets which were harnessed to provide support to the patients, employees and health system priorities of nine acute care hospitals across Middle Tennessee. Thompson directed the operations, fund development and the philanthropic award process of the foundations.
Thompson’s professional experiences have centered on major gift fundraising, strategic planning, management and communications. Prior to Ascension Saint Thomas, Thompson’s professional career included establishing a successful fundraising consulting practice which he operated for 10 years. Past experience includes serving as Director of Capital Giving at Belmont University and holding the position of Executive Director of the Tennessee Business Roundtable, as statewide business association. He also played a significant role in each of the statewide fundraising campaigns of his late father, U.S. Senator Fred Thompson.
Thompson holds a bachelor’s degree in B.A. from Southern Methodist University and an M.B.A. from Belmont University. Dan and his wife, Mara, live in the Green Hills area of Nashville.
Previous Experience
• Vice President at the Ascension Saint Thomas Foundation
• Director of Capital Giving at Belmont University
• Executive Director of the Tennessee Business Roundtable