Q&A with David M. Rottkamp, CPA, Grassi Nonprofit Leader & the MS Society Spirit Honoree
Meet David M. Rottkamp, CPA, a dedicated leader of Grassi’s nonprofit practice and this year’s Spirit Honoree for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Greater NYC/Long Island Chapter (“MS Society”) at their annual Dinner of Champions gala. With over 36 years of experience and a personal connection to MS, David has been a driving force in shaping the MS Society and the broader nonprofit landscape. In this Q&A, David shares insights on nonprofit challenges, effective board governance, and the evolving world of charitable giving, offering a unique perspective as both a professional advisor and a passionate volunteer.
Q: What made you start working in the nonprofit sector?
A: Over 36 years ago, I started my first professional CPA job at a firm that only did nonprofit work. Within a week, I felt connected to the industry and never looked back.
Q: How have you seen the nonprofit sector evolve over your career?
A: Over the past 36+ years, I’ve seen the number of nonprofits double. The sector has become a vital fabric of our Society, addressing growing community needs. Nonprofits have become larger, better organized, and more professionally managed. Today, the nonprofit sector is a mainstream business, playing a massive role in our Nation’s economy and growth.
Q: What are the most significant challenges facing nonprofits today?
A: One main challenge is financial sustainability, as there’s an increased need for services in our communities but not enough revenue generation to support those needs. With so many more nonprofits, there is competition for charitable dollars. Retaining and recruiting talented staff is another significant challenge. Nonprofits often need help attracting and retaining qualified employees due to compensation and other constraints. Another significant challenge is organizational and board leadership succession, as organizations need help developing the next generation of nonprofit leaders.
Q: How has your professional experience benefited the boards you serve on?
A: My extensive experience in the nonprofit sector allows me to bring financial knowledge that most board members still need to gain. I can share insights from working with hundreds of nonprofits over the years, offering best practices and different perspectives on how to approach challenges and opportunities.
Q: How do you balance your professional career with serving on five boards?
A: It’s about time management and passion. I’ve always believed in giving 100% to my volunteer work while maintaining my professional responsibilities. Sometimes, it means sleeping a little less or getting up earlier, but you find the time when you’re passionate about a cause— knowing your limits and when to say no to additional commitments.
Q: What advice would you give someone considering a board role?
A: Do it! Don’t be afraid to join a board, even at a young age. Your experiences and opinions have value. Understand the time commitment required and ensure you can balance it with your professional responsibilities. In your first year, focus on listening and learning before asserting yourself as an expert.
Q: How did you first get involved with the MS Society?
A: I joined the MS Society’s Long Island Chapter in 2006. Due to my professional background, I was initially tapped to be the Audit Committee Chair. Interestingly, my mother had lived with MS for most of her adult life, passing away just a year after I joined the board. This personal connection has made my work with the Society even more meaningful.
Q: Can you share your work and involvement with the MS Society?
A: As I mentioned, I joined the MS Long Island Chapter in 2006. Within a few years, the CEO of our National MS Society noticed my professional background and asked me to join the National Audit Committee. I joined the National board shortly thereafter. Within my local Chapter, I have held nearly every officer role – Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary and Finance/Audit Committee Chair. Today, I am the Greater New York City/Long Island Chapter Chair. On a National level, I am on several committees (audit, finance, and budget development) and serve as Vice Chair of the Finance Committee.
Q: What has been your most significant achievement while serving the MS Society?
A: One of my proudest achievements was during my tenure on the National Audit Committee. I helped unify 37 “separate” chapters into one unified Society. This transformation improved financial efficiency and enhanced program delivery and research funding. It was crucial in helping the organization navigate challenges (both fiscal and operational) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Q: What does being named the Spirit Honoree mean to you?
A: It’s a recognition of the years of volunteer work I’ve dedicated to the MS Society. While I’ve never sought recognition, it’s exciting and rewarding to be acknowledged by my peers. It’s also an opportunity to raise more funds for the Society, through the Dinner of Champions event. Our event is the largest non-athletic (bike and walk events) fundraising event for the MS Society nationwide.
Q: Can you share how this fundraising event will help the Society?
A: Every dollar we raise goes to programs and research. Since my mother was diagnosed, the progress in treatments and therapies has been remarkable. When my mother was diagnosed with MS, there were no drug treatments available. The first disease-modifying therapy was approved in 1993, (more than 20 years after her diagnosis. Today, thanks to the funds we’ve raised and directed towards research, over 20 disease-modifying therapies are available. This dramatic increase in treatment options has significantly improved the lives of people living with MS.
Q: What’s one of the most rewarding aspects of your work with the MS Society?
A: The most rewarding part is seeing our tangible impact on people’s lives. Whether through new research breakthroughs, improved support services, or simply bringing people together at events like our Dinner of Champions, it’s incredibly fulfilling to see how our work makes a difference. Every time I stand in front of our supporters or hear stories from people living with MS, I’m reminded of Mom and why this work is so important.