We’re thrilled to introduce the newest member of the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation team: Samantha (Sam) Decker, who joins us as Director of Annual & Major Giving.
A seasoned Chicago-based fundraiser with more than a decade of experience, Sam brings a wealth of knowledge, energy, and a deep commitment to mission-driven work. Her career has spanned some of Chicago’s most iconic institutions–from public media to early childhood education–raising more than $75 million in philanthropic support along the way.
With a background in the arts and a passion for purposeful storytelling, Sam is known for designing strategic campaigns that are powered by data and driven by heart. Whether she’s working behind the scenes with a well-loved spreadsheet or forging meaningful connections with donors, Sam approaches philanthropy with authenticity, creativity, and joy.
Most recently, Sam was a key leader on the Advancement team at Erikson Institute, helping the organization break fundraising records and secure transformative institutional support. She’s also held critical fundraising roles at WTTW/Chicago PBS and WBEZ/Chicago Public Media, and has advised nonprofits across the country on best practices in campaign strategy, development assessments, and peer benchmarking.
Sam is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and a proud member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, upholding the highest standards of ethical and effective giving. She holds a Master of Arts Management from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University.
Outside of work, you’ll find Sam exploring her artistic side at a community pottery studio, out walking her rescue pup Maple, or unwinding with a great mystery novel.
We’re excited to welcome Sam to the Lynn Sage team during such a transformational year–our 40th anniversary–and know her leadership will play a key role in driving our mission forward: funding lifesaving breast cancer research and supporting the next generation of scientists and clinicians.