Jeff Brasher is a distinguished nonprofit executive with over 20 years of leadership experience and a lifelong commitment to empowering communities. As the Chief Executive Officer of Norwela Council, Scouting America, Jeff oversees an impactful operation serving more than 2,700 youth across nine parishes in Louisiana. Supported by 800+ dedicated adult volunteers, he manages a $1.6 million budget, driving financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and programmatic excellence.

Jeff’s leadership has been marked by a remarkable ability to foster strategic growth and build high-performing teams. His innovative recruitment strategies post-pandemic resulted in a 5.6% membership increase, while his adept financial planning reduced operating expenses by 12%. In addition to directing day-to-day operations, Jeff spearheaded capital development projects exceeding $1 million, ensuring long-term infrastructure sustainability and community engagement.

With a Master of Science in Nonprofit Administration from Louisiana State University in Shreveport, where he earned the prestigious 2024 University Award, Jeff has developed a profound understanding of the nonprofit landscape. His academic accomplishments, combined with certifications such as the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP), reflect his unwavering dedication to continuous learning and professional development.

Jeff’s expertise spans multiple dimensions of nonprofit leadership, including board governance, fundraising, volunteer management, and strategic planning. As a mentor in Scouting University, he has helped shape the next generation of leaders, sharing his knowledge and fostering organizational growth. His role as an Advisory Board Member for the LSUS Institute for Nonprofit Administration & Research further exemplifies his commitment to advancing the field of nonprofit management.

Throughout his career, Jeff has consistently prioritized community engagement and stakeholder collaboration. His role as a spokesperson for Norwela Council has enhanced the organization’s visibility, leading to increased funding for at-risk youth programs. Jeff’s strategic vision and ability to forge strong partnerships have earned him numerous accolades, including the Boy Scouts of America Endowment Major Gifts Award and the Presidential Marketing Award for Excellence.

Before his tenure with Scouting America, Jeff honed his skills in roles such as District Executive, Senior District Executive, and Field Director, gaining invaluable insights into nonprofit operations. His efforts have consistently resulted in balanced membership growth, effective resource allocation, and measurable organizational impact. Additionally, his work with the Greater Alabama Council highlighted his expertise in marketing, program development, and public relations.

Jeff’s dedication extends beyond his professional life. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, he is deeply committed to community service, volunteering with animal welfare organizations, and mentoring students as an academic coach. His personal values are reflected in his motto, “Live by the Golden Rule and lift others up whenever you can,” a guiding principle that shapes his approach to leadership and service.

Jeff is also an accomplished public speaker, having addressed civic clubs, academic conferences, and nonprofit organizations on topics ranging from community engagement to strategic leadership. His publication on challenges and opportunities for nonprofit academic centers further underscores his thought leadership in the sector.

In every role he undertakes, Jeff exemplifies the character, knowledge, strategic insight, and communication skills essential for effective leadership. His work continues to inspire others, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves.

Character:

Jeff embodies integrity, compassion, and a commitment to excellence, consistently serving as a role model for ethical leadership. His dedication to building strong communities reflects his deep sense of responsibility and purpose.

Knowledge:

With a robust academic foundation and over 20 years of experience, Jeff brings unparalleled expertise in nonprofit management, financial oversight, and program development, ensuring impactful and sustainable growth.

Strategic:

Jeff’s ability to align organizational goals with actionable strategies has led to measurable success, including capital development projects, membership growth, and operational efficiency improvements.

Communication:

As a dynamic public speaker and advocate, Jeff excels at building relationships, fostering collaboration, and inspiring teams to achieve shared goals. His clear and compelling communication style amplifies his leadership impact.