Deborah Hanson

Principal Gifts Officer

Inspiration: “Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness.” — Amy Collette

What working in this community means to me: “The Twin Cities are filled with generous people. The positive difference we can make together in our neighbors’ lives is remarkable, and always inspires me.”

As principal gift officer, Deborah works with generous individuals and business leaders who partner with Greater Twin Cities United Way to help others succeed through current and future investments in transformational work across the community. She enjoys sharing the impact these individuals and leaders’ gifts make with her donors first-hand.

Prior to joining United Way, Deborah served as a senior development leader in multiple capacities at Minnesota Public Radio, TPT-Twin Cities PBS, and the Minnesota Orchestra. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls with a bachelor’s degree in history.

Deborah is active with the Minnesota Planned Giving Council and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.  She has served on the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Foundation board and chaired the university’s Advancement Council. She and her husband, Steve, enjoy traveling, the arts, and spending time with their wide circle of friends and family.