Michael NIlsen

Michael Nilsen serves as vice president, marketing, communications and public policy, for the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), which works to advance ethical and effective fundraising and represents more than 28,000 charities and charitable fundraisers around the world.

Mr. Nilsen has been with AFP for more than two decades and oversees all communications efforts for the association, working in everything from government affairs and public policy to media relations, marketing, awards, and social media. He was the first full-time lobbyist for the association, advocating in Congress, the Canadian Parliament and various state and provincial legislatures across North America on public policy issues related to fundraising and the charitable sector. 

He then turned his efforts to helping increase AFP’s profile in the media and the public. He has rapidly expanded AFP’s awards and National Philanthropy Day programs, developed new research projects and communications vehicles, and managed AFP’s conference plenary sessions, among many other duties.

Mr. Nilsen has now returned to AFP’s public policy department, working to enhance the association’s advocacy and lobbying programs. He is also creating new outreach grassroots initiatives to encourage AFP members and nonprofits around the world to become more engaged in government relations. 

Prior to joining AFP, Mr. Nilsen worked as a lobbyist for Marlowe & Company where he assisted municipal and nonprofit clients on issues ranging from tax and environment policy to community development and airline safety regulations. He also served in the office of Congressman J.J. Pickle (D-TX), advising the Congressman on issues related to crime, immigration and other issues.

Michael Nilsen
Twitter: @afpadvocacy1
LinkedIn: Michael Nilsen

AFP Global  
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