John Zittrouer recently retired in January 2016 from a 33 year career in employee benefit sales and service focused primarily on healthcare and 401(k) retirement plans. John attended the University of Georgia earning a BA degree in Economics in March of 1982. He has been married to his wife, Peggy, since 1983, having just celebrated their 33^rd anniversary on August 20^th of this year. They have two adult children, David (25) and Stephen (23).

John (and Peggy) have been involved with JDRF since Stephen was diagnosed with T1D in 2009 at age 16. John has been active on the board for the Greater Western Carolinas chapter for the past four (4) years serving as co-chair of the golf event committee and then chair of the Corporate Development Committee, while Peggy graciously gives her time once a week in the office.  He is now currently serving as Board President for the chapter for FY17 and FY18.

Q&A With John:

What are some of your favorite JDRF moments from 2016?

1)      My first highlight would be participating in the JDRF One Conference in Washington, DC this summer. The opportunity to meet JDRF leadership, other staff and other volunteers from across the country was very meaningful to me as a new board president. In addition, being able to spend time on Capitol Hill as a JDRF united front meeting with our respective legislators to further our cause was an incredible experience.

2)      My last favorite moment from this past year was, of course, our tremendously successful Charlotte Hope Gala. Everyone did such a great job, staff and volunteers alike, in the planning and execution of what many expressed to me as the best fundraising event they had ever attended. To reach the financial heights we did and to have had the support of Eric Church, his wife and their foundation for that added boost made it a “Record Year” evening and event.

What you are looking forward to the most in 2017?

For 2017, I’d like to see continued growth of our chapter relative to fundraising revenue needed for the advancement of all the critical research taking place around the world. We can accomplish this by continuing to drive our efforts to become more donor-centric in our donor/volunteer relationships as part of achieving the JDRF overall strategic plan. In addition, the national roll out of the relationship management program skills training for JDRF staff is a testament to JDRF’s commitment to shift our culture from transactional to relational, thus enhancing our ability to increase donor engagement and revenue. I’m look forward to continuing to be a part of the staff/volunteer training team.

What is your vision for the board and chapter during your time as President?

Simply stated, I’d like for us to continue the progress we’ve made in building and developing a High Impact Board. Identifying individuals within our chapter footprint who are willing to engage in our mission and help drive fundraising efforts will allow us to be successful. I’d like for us to tap deeper into talent that may not have a direct connection to T1D in order to widen our sphere of influence as well as continuing to engage those who are directly affected. I think important ways for the board to have greater impact on our success is to embrace both Outreach and Stewardship as a way to assist staff and other volunteers in managing the volume of events and people that attend and stay connected to those who could elevate their involvement.