A respected international designation for fundraising professionals has been awarded to Bermuda’s Jennifer Burland Adams.

She is the first Bermudian to hold the designation, and joins more than 5,000 professionals around the world who are Certified Fund Raising Executives (CFRE).

Mrs Burland Adams is the founding president of the Bermuda chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), a worldwide organisation of more than 30,000 professionals.

“This certification is something that I have been working on for more than five years,” said Mrs Burland Adams.

“In addition to wishing to receive this executive certification for professional reasons, in my role as president of AFP Bermuda, I felt it was important to pave the way for fundraising professionals in Bermuda.

“Strong non-profit leadership is vital for the success of our local non-profits, so that we can act on and react to social issues, natural disasters and environmental concerns, along with efficiently and effectively running programmes in the education, arts culture and heritage spheres.”

Mrs Burland Adams, who is also director of advancement for Bermuda High School, added: “An important component in a non-profit’s sustainability and ability to be impactful is its fundraising effectiveness and integrity.

“All members of AFP and all CFREs adhere to a Donor Bill of Rights and annually sign a Code of Ethics which governs their actions regarding the proper stewardship of a gift according to the donor’s intent.”

To gain the designation, candidates must meet a series of standards set by CFRE International, which include including tenure in the profession, education, demonstrated fundraising achievement and a commitment to service to not-for-profit organisations. There are also a written examination.

Jim Caldarola, immediate past chairman of CFRE International, said: “The CFRE credential was created to identify for the public and employers those individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and commitment to perform fundraising duties in an effective and ethical manner.

“As the certification is a voluntary achievement, the CFRE credential demonstrates a high level of commitment on the part of Jennifer Burland Adams to herself, the fundraising profession, and the donors who are served”.