Dr. Danny M. Yanez, CFRE
Executive Director
Danny M. Yanez, CFRE, is a seasoned fundraising executive, nonprofit strategist, and organizational leader with deep roots in South Florida’s philanthropic community. Appointed after a national search as Seraphic Fire’s Executive Director in the fall of 2024, he helped lead the organization through a period of strategic renewal. In just half a year, Seraphic Fire took swift and thoughtful action to stabilize operations, rebuild donor trust, and achieve a record-setting fundraising year in its 22-year history.
Born and raised in Miami, Danny previously held senior advancement roles at St. Thomas University and the University of Miami, where he was instrumental in major gift fundraising, capital campaigns, and philanthropic initiatives up to a multi-billion-dollar scale. He also fostered strategic partnerships across higher education, local communities, and industry leaders. Following these roles, he served as a national fundraising consultant, advising nonprofit organizations on sustainable development, campaign strategy, and donor engagement.
Danny began his career in architecture and urban planning, later earning both a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership and a Master of Architecture in Urban Design from the University of Miami. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Notre Dame and is nationally credentialed as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). Known for building meaningful donor relationships and delivering transformational impact, Danny is widely regarded as one of South Florida’s most effective nonprofit fundraisers.
He lives in Miami with his wife and two daughters.
