Denise Cavanaugh

denise-c

 

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315-520-1916
Leadership | Finance | Human Services | Education

Empowering nonprofits, government, and business leaders through strategic leadership and operational excellence.

 

 

Core Consulting Strengths:

  • Strategic Planning, Board Development & Executive Leadership
  • Program Development & Evaluation
  • Nonprofit Operations & Compliance
  • Multi-sector Collaboration (Govt., Education, Public & Private)
  • Organizational Turnaround & Growth
  • Fundraising & Grant Development
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Training and Advocacy
  • Staff Development, Coaching, Training & Public Speaking


Notable Career Highlights:

  • Executive Director, Catholic Charities of Oneida & Madison Counties: Led a $10M agency, launched new programs, created homeless shelter for youth, and secured major grants.
  • Executive Director, YWCA Mohawk Valley: Tripled agency size, launched racial justice initiatives, and opened transitional housing.
  • Business Development Director, The House of the Good Shepherd: Built high-value Medicaid Waiver Program and expanded wellness programs.
  • Executive Director, Herkimer County Chamber of Commerce: Strengthening local economy through business recruitment, tourism, and education.


Academic Credentials:

  • Ed.D. in Executive Leadership – St. John Fisher College
  • M.S. in Counselor Education – SUNY Oneonta
  • B.S. in Retail Management & Economics – Russell Sage College


Teaching & Coaching Roles:

  • Le Moyne College – Finance for Executive Leaders (Ed.D. Program)
  • Herkimer College – Public Speaking, Business, Entrepreneurship & Sociology; in prison, classroom, and online
  • Experienced Trainer – Leadership, DEI, Communication, and Conflict Resolution


Community Impact:

  • NYS Woman of Distinction (2023)
  • Board roles with United Way, Women’s Fund, Excellus, and others
  • Advocate for women, children, and marginalized populations