Kinna N. Clark, Esq., CAP^®
Senior Director of Development and Gift Planning Services
The University of North Carolina System
Raleigh, NC
http://www.northcarolina.edu
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Kinna Clark is the Senior Director of Development and Gift Planning Services for the University of North Carolina System Office and Executive Director of the North Carolina Gift Planning, LLC. As part of the Shared Advancement Services team, she supports UNC System institutions by strengthening gift planning programs, overseeing the systemwide life income gift program, and providing professional development, consultation, and resources to advancement professionals.

Prior to joining the UNC System Office, Kinna served as Major & Planned Gifts Officer at North Carolina Central University School of Law. An alumna of the UNC System, she earned her bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University and her Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law. Kinna is a licensed attorney in North Carolina. She further holds the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) designation from the American College of Financial Services.

Beyond her professional work, Kinna contributes her expertise through service on the American Council on Gift Annuities, North Carolina Council of Charitable Gift Planners, Salvation Army Bull City Youth Center of Durham, Dispersion Philanthropy, and Take II Boards.

Fun Facts About Kinna

When did you first learn about charitable gift annuities?

I was first introduced to charitable gift annuities while working at NCCU School of Law. My director at the time asked me what I knew about life income gifts—particularly Charitable Gift Annuities (CGAs) and Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs). To be honest, it all sounded like a foreign language at first, and my director could tell by the look on my face! He explained that these were powerful planned giving tools that allowed donors to leave a legacy while also creating an income stream for themselves and/or loved ones. What really stuck with me was learning that CGAs provide guaranteed income for life—no matter what. That combination of security and generosity fascinated me, and it sparked my desire to learn everything I could about these gift options. Since then, I’ve seen firsthand how CGAs can be a meaningful way for donors to both support their financial well-being and the charities they love.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

It’s hard to choose just one thing. I truly enjoy the people – my colleagues, the donors I get to serve, and the students and institutions we are working together to support. What inspires me most is being part of transformational philanthropy: helping donors shape gifts that create a lasting legacy while advancing the mission of our universities and affiliated entities. There’s nothing quite like the moment when a donor realizes the lasting impact they can have—it’s a warm, rewarding feeling that never gets old. Being able to contribute as both a resource and a partner in these moments is incredibly fulfilling.

If you could learn one new personal skill, what would it be?

I would love to learn a new language, maybe Spanish or French. Language is such a powerful connector, and I think it would open up new opportunities to build relationships, travel more meaningfully, and better connect with people across cultures.

When you’re not at work, what are your passions?

I’m passionate about spending time with family and friends, traveling, and exploring new foods. Some of my favorite memories come from combining all three, like traveling with loved ones and sharing a great meal in a new city or country. Those experiences not only bring me joy but also remind me of how special it is to slow down, savor the moment, and create lasting memories with the people who matter most.