Joe Rosenthal, Harker’s executive director of advancement, was one of several individuals and organizations honored by the Silicon Valley chapter of the American Fundraising Professionals (AFP) at this year’s annual National Philanthropy Day awards luncheon on Nov. 19. Held at the Hyatt Regency in Santa Clara and attended by over 500 guests who represented dozens of Bay Area nonprofits and corporations, Rosenthal was named the Outstanding Professional Fundraiser for 2009.

“Congratulations to Joe for all of his dedication to and hard work on behalf of the school and the children. This is a tremendous honor to him and the school community,” said Chris Nikoloff, head of school, after Rosenthal’s selection for this award was announced in June.

Sharon Svensson, president of Essex and Drake Fund Raising Council, which recommended Rosenthal for the award, said, “The National Philanthropy Day (NPD) selection panel was very impressed by Joe. They specifically said, ‘[We] were very impressed by the quality of the nomination and the length and breadth of Joe’s accomplishments.'”

Rosenthal recognized his advancement team, who were all in attendance, for their outstanding work for Harker. Also in attendance were many of Harker’s board of trustees, Nikoloff and many of Harker’s key donors.