This Is Why Susan G. Komen Donors Left (Expanded Version)

by Gary Snyder

 Here is why contributions to Susan G. Komen dropped 22 percent in the 12 months.

After the controversy over the breast-cancer charity’s quickly rescinded plan to cut off grants to Planned Parenthood the precipitous decline began. The drop was most apparent in the area of unrestricted “contributions, sponsorships and entry fees,” adding up to a full $100 million. 

The group also curtailed expenditures, primarily in the areas of research (approximately a $20 million reduction) and Public Health education (a $30 million reduction). 

Last year, after finding that participation and revenue had fallen off significantly, Komen cancelled seven fundraising walks. 

The affiliates have also taken losses. Susan G. Komen for the Cure paid out almost $400,000 in severance last year to four executives who left the organizations, including nearly $270,000 to its former president, even though contributions and other revenue dipped by 22 percent last year. 

The breast cancer charity also disclosed that its new president and CEO, Dr. Judith Salerno, will earn $475,000, about 40 percent more than her predecessor. Founder Nancy Brinker’s annual salary will be $390,000 as chair, almost 30 percent less than the $549,380 she earned last year as president and CEO. Brinker moved to that a position after stepping down as president and CEO when Salerno was hired. In 2012, Brinker earned $548,785, in addition to a bonus of nearly $125,000 that pushed total compensation to nearly $700,000. No bonuses or incentive compensation were reported for officers and directors on the most recent Form 990. She had been CEO since December 2009 after the positions of president and CEO were split. Komen announced in August 2012 that Brinker would step down as CEO but remain on the board of directors, serving as CEO until a permanent replacement was chosen.

At the time Nancy Brinker was the sole decision-maker at the foundation.  Her choices as the Foundation's CEO and Board leader forced the charity into the unique position as the most admired charity to the nation's worst. 



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