Toni Pergolin
President & Chief Executive Officer
Bancroft
What inspired you to join/start your business?
After many years working at a leadership level in a large healthcare system, I saw an opportunity to take all I had learned in my career and bring it to a small organization that was doing such meaningful work. The nonprofit world always intrigued me, and to assume a leadership role enabled me to do the things I have been advising others to do, and as a result, have a positive impact on the organization’s mission to help others.
What was your most satisfying moment in your career?
When I walked into a financial crisis as the new CFO, to see the faces of those who relied so deeply on the organization to provide critical supports, and end up working harder than I ever thought I could to turn things around to such an extent that we were able to build a new modern campus that would support our students to learn and grow, like never before. You can imagine my satisfaction on the campus’ opening day after a decade of work!
How do you define success?
Margin and Mission. You need both! Generating a healthy margin to invest back into the organization and delivering on your mission in the best way possible ensures sustainability for any company.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Never be afraid to ask for help.
What women inspire you and why?
So many women who have made a difference in my life. Women like my mother stepped away from the stereotype in the 1970s/80s and had a long successful career in a typically male occupation, while raising her family. My colleagues who inspire me every day as they work collaboratively and deliberately to ensure the highest level of care for those we serve, and of course Margaret Bancroft. She was a TRAILBLAZER! At the young age of 25, she embarked on a courageous endeavor to dedicate her life to helping children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Describe yourself in three words.
Accountable, focused and loyal.
Fill in the Blank:
- When I face a challenge, I... learn as much as I can about the situation, then develop a game plan as quickly as possible to get through it. Timing is the most important aspect of managing through a challenge.
- If I could go back in time, I would tell myself… You can do it!!
- The one thing I couldn’t live without is… my family.
- By this time next year, I will be… in Clearwater watching the Phillies at Spring Training. I was so sad to have to miss this year!
- The best thing that happened to me last week was… My son facetimed me from the Grand Canyon! It was so cool!
- To get my creative juices flowing, I… I get to the office early when it’s quiet, with my coffee and oatmeal and spend time planning for the day, the week and the future for Bancroft!
