Heather Dayton
Heather Dayton serves as the development support specialist for the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation, bringing more than 15 years of experience advancing philanthropy and operational excellence in mission-driven organizations. She is passionate about empowering fundraising teams, coordinating meaningful grant efforts and strengthening operations in ways that keep the donor experience at the heart of every interaction.
Heather loves connecting with donors, partners and key stakeholders so they feel inspired, informed and truly appreciated at every stage of their philanthropic journey. Prior to joining MHIF, she served as the director of wellbeing at the YMCA of the North, advancing its mission beginning in 2011, and now lends her time to the community board and mission advancement committee for Camp St. Croix. She also serves as a judicial board member and development committee member for Compassionate Action for Animals.
A lifelong Minnesotan, Heather enjoys spending time with her adult children and grandchild, diving into DIY projects and caring for her three rescued pit bulls and her horse.