Meet Danielle Mack
Occupation: Vice President and Chief Development Officer
Organization: Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center
Tell us a little about your Baton Rouge Story. What brought you to Baton Rouge?
I was born and raised in Baton Rouge and have many fond childhood memories. My college journey led me to Northwestern State University, and I had a wonderful experience. Following graduation, I relocated to Houston for several years, met my husband James (an LSU alum), and began my career in nonprofit fundraising. When we started our family, we relocated back to Louisiana to be closer to home, family, and friends. Since my return, I have had an opportunity to meet so many amazing people doing exceptional things.
Tell us more about how you’re involved in Baton Rouge (job or organizations).
I’m proud to lead a great team of philanthropy professionals making a positive impact on the future of cancer care and the lives of thousands of cancer patients and their families.
In addition to my leadership role at Mary Bird Perkins, I actively volunteer on a variety of community and professional boards including serving as president-elect of the Greater Baton Rouge Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals, president of the FranU Business Advisory Board, and an active member of Inner Wheel Club of Baton Rouge, helping organize the Attic Trash and Treasure Sale, which benefits several charitable organizations annually.
What I tend to enjoy most is the opportunity I have to mentor and inspire young women and future leaders in our community wishing to build a career in philanthropy in the nonprofit sector.
What is your favorite thing about Baton Rouge?
The southern hospitality, coupled with the warmth, kindness, and incredible generosity of the community are my favorite things about Baton Rouge. It’s wonderful to see so many willing to invest their time, talent, and many treasures in improving our city and helping our neighbors. It is also easy to get involved and make a difference in an area you are passionate about improving.
What is your dream for Baton Rouge?
My dream for Baton Rouge is to see our city embrace innovation, diversity, and progress. My hope is that we can elevate our community by prioritizing taking the difficult but necessary steps to move the needle forward on providing access to quality education for all students and improving health equity and outcomes.
How are young professionals like yourself shaping Baton Rouge?
I’m always in awe of fellow young professionals in Baton Rouge. It is great to see so many talented leaders, business owners, and community advocates with big ideas and a deep commitment to making our city better. I certainly see the future of Baton Rouge on the rise, and I’m proud to be part of our community.
What would you say to someone considering a move to Baton Rouge?
Baton Rouge is a unique city full of remarkable people, culture, food, entertainment, arts, and many hidden gems. The city is truly what you make of it and with an open mind, you can find endless opportunities to thrive.
What is your Baton Rouge favorite?
Place to eat: Nino’s Italian for dinner and Cupcake Junkie for sweet treats
Place to hang out: Downtown Baton Rouge during festival season
Place to capture the perfect Instagram pic: Perkins Rowe
Place to people watch: The Bar High Table with window view at The Vintage with my hubby
Place to network: Leadership and Lattes
Way to give back: Volunteering or giving a gift to an organization doing great work
Event: The Crawfish King Cook-off, which benefits Big Buddy and Junior Achievement