Ethics, Boards, and Fundraising: Nonprofit Best Practices with Nicole Miller-Coleman

Nonprofit fundraising ethics, board governance, and conflict of interest policies are crucial for nonprofit success. In this episode, May Harris talks with Nicole Miller-Coleman about CFRE, board service, and building capacity.

Nicole Miller-Coleman, CFRE and nonprofit consultant, shares insights from decades of experience helping nonprofits grow revenue, strengthen governance, and follow ethical standards. She and host May Harris discuss why CFRE’s code of ethics matters, what to look for before joining a board, and how to avoid conflicts of interest while serving with integrity. This episode equips nonprofit leaders, board members, and fundraisers with strategies to build trust, capacity, and long-term impact.

What you will learn in this episode

✅ Why fundraising ethics matter and how CFRE sets the gold standard
✅ What to review before joining a nonprofit board (bylaws, policies, financials)
✅ How to identify and manage conflicts of interest on nonprofit boards
✅ Why diversity, transparency, and fiduciary duties build stronger boards

👉 If this conversation gave you clarity, share it with a fellow nonprofit leader, subscribe for more insights, and leave a review to help others find the show. Explore more tools here: Nonprofit Council Leadership Accelerator.

Key Timestamps

• 00:00 Why fundraising ethics matter: CFRE and the code of conduct

• 01:10 Nicole’s background in arts nonprofits and consulting

• 02:20 Supporting small and midsize nonprofits in fundraising and growth

• 03:23 Earning the CFRE credential and its global impact

• 05:06 Why fundraisers can’t take a percentage of grants

• 07:28 What to evaluate before joining a nonprofit board

• 09:12 Best practice policies: conflict of interest, whistleblower, document retention

• 10:34 Diversity as a best practice for nonprofit boards

• 13:11 Why bylaws matter and how neglect can cause governance issues

• 15:03 Understanding financial statements and IRS Form 990

• 16:13 Why minutes matter: avoiding transcripts and risky content

• 18:12 Nicole’s favorite board experience and the importance of strong leadership

• 20:53 Why boards shouldn’t expect free legal, accounting, or fundraising work

• 23:06 Managing conflicts of interest for consultants and fundraisers

• 27:02 Fiduciary duties: duty of loyalty, care, good faith, and obedience

• 28:08 Disclosing opportunities and maintaining board ethics

Key Takeaways

🔷 Ethics are non-negotiable. CFRE fundraising standards ensure donors and communities are protected.
🔷 Do your homework before joining a board. Review bylaws, policies, financials, and compliance status.
🔷 Conflicts of interest must be disclosed. Transparency builds trust and protects both individuals and organizations.
🔷 Strong boards require diversity and accountability. Effective governance comes from inclusive perspectives and fiduciary duty.

Resources

• For Profit Law Group - Website - https://www.fplglaw.com 

• Nonprofit Counsel - Website - https://www.nonprofitcounsel.com/ 

• Nonprofit Counsel - Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-counsel/ Nicole Miller-Coleman - https://www.nicolemillercoleman.com/?fbclid=IwAR1_-8c8nhKBCcxwLX8Bn3Bt4oCjm6YkJ-LIvvqRVuEO298hFL7pPYAKOv8

Guest Bio: Nicole Miller-Coleman

Nicole Miller-Coleman, CFRE, is a seasoned nonprofit consultant and founder of Criterion Nonprofit Consulting. With over 16 years of experience in fundraising, governance, and nonprofit capacity building, she has worked with arts, culture, and community organizations across San Diego and beyond. As a Certified Fund Raising Executive, she upholds the highest standards of fundraising ethics and donor-centered practice. Nicole helps small and midsize nonprofits strengthen their governance, diversify boards, and raise the resources they need to thrive.

 

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