Author’s Note
Good leadership is easy to spot but hard to define. Popular idioms point to leadership as influence, or hope, or the ability to translate vision into reality. Some leaders are characterized by charisma, others by quiet acts of service. Marc Vaillancourt, the Chief Executive Officer of the South Dakota Mines Center for Alumni Relations and Advancement (CARA), is all of these things and more.
Benefactor Group is proud to work with leaders of all styles and backgrounds. Through this interview series, we have asked a number of our partners, past and present, to share their personal leadership philosophies, career journeys, and experiences working in partnership with Benefactor Group. We found each conversation illuminating—and have shared their varied accomplishments, trials, and lessons learned below.
In this installment of Uncommon Leaders, Marc shares insights from his first year at the helm. He explores what alignment in leadership looks like, the value of strategic collaboration, and how shared purpose drives sustainable advancement.
Watch the video to hear Marc’s perspective on leadership, legacy, and the power of partnership.
About Marc
Marc serves as the Chief Executive Officer for the South Dakota Mines Center for Alumni Relations and Advancement (CARA) and has recently completed his first year in the position. With more than 15 years of experience in philanthropic fundraising and nonprofit leadership, Marc is a strategic, mission-driven professional dedicated to strengthening relationships and advancing institutional goals. Throughout his career, he has helped organizations grow their impact through authentic engagement, thoughtful stewardship, and a focus on community building.
Marc describes himself as a coffee enthusiast and a connector. He is also an accomplished musician who has independently released original instrumental piano music. In his free time, he enjoys cycling and cheering on his favorite hockey teams.
If you’re ready to start growing with Benefactor Group, contact us today.
