Courtney is an accomplished fundraising professional who brings a vast portfolio of experiences to her consulting firm, First Wave Consulting, which she re-launched in 2022 as an environmental nonprofit consulting firm.  She has successfully led development initiatives for universities, independent schools, healthcare institutions, and nonprofit, and community-based organizations.

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As director of the Duke University School of Law’s reunion fundraising program, Ms. Brady raised $3.5 million in gifts and pledges in two years.  As a major gift officer, she secured six-and seven-figure gifts and pledges as part of a $350 million University-wide scholarship initiative.  

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In addition to her major gift expertise, Ms. Brady has a sharp talent and a proven record for strategic planning. She has completed numerous plans for academic institutions, nonprofits, and associations.  Ms. Brady’s fundraising approach is centered on relationship-building and collaboration. 

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Ms. Brady has a passion for the ocean and protecting our natural resources.  She is an avid scuba diver, carries certifications in reef renewal and shark awareness, and recently completed her master’s degree in marine science from Unity College.  She is a volunteer scuba diver for the South Carolina Aquarium where she performs animal husbandry and education roles in the deepest tank in North America.

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A graduate of Dartmouth College and the Lawrenceville School, Ms. Brady is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Lowcountry Chapter (SC) and former Chair of the Camp Happy Days Board of Directors, currently serves on the board of the Fabien Cousteau Ocean Learning Center and serves on the Proteus Ocean Group Board of Directors.  She lives in Charleston, SC with her husband, Matt, their two daughters, Izzy and Lillie, and their two dogs.