Susan Downie Wheeler

She/Her/Hers

Major and Planned Gifts Officer

Advancement

About Susan

Susan Downie Wheeler is an accomplished fundraiser with a proven track record of raising major, deferred and transformational gifts to support the mission of the Chautauqua Institution. In her role, she cultivates relationships with donors, securing significant philanthropic investments that drive the Institution’s growth and impact. Her expertise spans all facets of major and planned giving, from direct outreach to legacy planning. She is passionate about helping individuals leave lasting legacies supporting Chautauqua’s mission. 

Before her tenure at Chautauqua, Susan spent seven years at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), most recently serving as senior director of national development. In this role, she worked on behalf of all schools, traveled nationally, managed a portfolio of high-net-worth donors, and played an integral part in securing gifts that supported the University’s strategic priorities. 

Before her role at CWRU, Susan worked at Hollins University, her alma mater, where she served as director of major and planned giving. There, she successfully raised major outright gifts, planned estate gifts, and endowment gifts (building a strong foundation for Hollins future). Her broad experience and dedication to cultivating meaningful donor relationships make her a vital asset to the Chautauqua community.

Why did you choose to work at Chautauqua? What do you like about working at Chautauqua?

I am completely drawn to Chautauqua’s atmosphere of learning and the culture of sharing ideas in a setting that is incredibly inspiring.

Professional Affiliations

NSFR (National Society of Fund Raisers), AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals, and NACGP (National Association of Charitable Gift Planners)

Personal Interests

Art, design, entertaining, lap swimming, beagling and cross-country skiing.