Cygnus Team

Penelope Burk, President
In 2000, Penelope introduced the fundraising industry to the concept of donor-centered fundraising, marking a moment of change for fundraising and the beginning of the donor-centered revolution. She is now the industry’s foremost authority on fundraising research, training and strategic planning based on donor-centered principles. Penelope is a fundraising futurist and iconoclast, advocating innovative approaches to raising money while challenging long-standing but ineffective beliefs that limit success.

The author of two best-selling books, and more than fifty articles, plays and seminars on fundraising, marketing, stewardship and not for profit management, Penelope is also a compelling and entertaining speaker. 

Jeff Dubberley, Vice President
As well as managing all of our client contracts, Jeff provides in-depth data analysis to all our research and client work. His ability to synthesize complex data patterns allows him to illuminate current and future trends in donor behavior for our clients, getting to the root of fundraising issues and clearly articulating potential. Jeff has worked closely on each of our past research projects and will continue to offer his comprehensive understanding of patterns in donor behavior to our upcoming planned giving research study.


Scott Koblyk, Director, Client Services
With eight years of fundraising experience in one of North America’s leading university advancement offices, Scott leads our team of client service associates. His capacity to envision goals and offer comprehensive strategies to reach those goals inspires our clients to maximize on the donor-centered opportunities in their organizations. When he’s not drafting reports and speaking with clients, he can most often be found on the golf course.

Haihong Wang, PhD, Research and Client Service Associate
Hai has extensive experience in both qualitative and quantitative research.  With meticulous attention to detail and the ability to thrive under pressure, she transforms columns of complex data into logical and valuable information. Hai holds a Masters Degree in English Literature as well as a PhD in Sociology and contributes a unique perspective when crafting the survey questionnaires with our team of experts.  Hai enjoys spending her leisure time with her family.

Amanda Diletti, Coordinator, IT and Data Analysis , Project Manager, Cygnus Donor Survey
With training in web design and marketing, Amanda adds color and style to all of our web and print materials, ensuring that our findings are presented in a way that is as compelling as the information itself. Also schooled as a pastry-chef, Amanda makes an absolutely sinful chocolate-raspberry-Chambord torte.

Theresa Horak, Manager, Customer Relations
Theresa is the first point of contact for all our clients, customers and the media.  As a master multi-tasker she coordinates Penelope’s speaking engagements and media interviews.  She handles registrations for the Cygnus webinars and seminars as well as processes both local and international orders for Penelope’s publications Donor-Centered Fundraising, Donor-Centered Leadership and The Annual Cygnus Donor Research Study. Theresa enjoys travelling and playing her djembe drum.

The Cygnus Players
Roger Dunn, Maggie Butterfield, Nick Rice are three veteran actors who have been featured in countless film, television and stage roles over their varied careers. As The Cygnus Players, they bring a unique element to some of our seminars and training programs. Though the key to success in fundraising is interacting with people, the vast majority of fundraising training focuses heavily on theory presented in a classroom setting. The Cygnus Players break the mould, engaging and entertaining audiences, while they impart valuable knowledge that will work in the field. For more information on our seminars with actors, click here.