Suzanne Delaney Earns Two Fund Raising Credentials
It was announced today by Zev Buffman, Ruth Eckerd Hall President & CEO that Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Chief Development Officer/Vice-President of Development, Suzanne Delaney earned a Certificate in Fund Raising Management (CFRM) from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy this June and in July became a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE).
“In the short amount of time since Suzy became the Chief Development Officer, she has demonstrated a passion and commitment to the mission of Ruth Eckerd Hall which is changing lives through performing arts,” commented Buffman. “As a non-profit organization we are one of the largest providers of arts education and outreach in the nation. The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts reaches more than 41,000 students annually and provides over 81,000 hours of high-caliber arts experiences across the entire Tampa Bay area. Her hard work, studies, care and stewardship of Ruth Eckerd Hall donors, members, volunteers and partners will continue to serve the heart of the Ruth Eckerd Hall mission for years to come.”
In addition to overseeing fundraising for the arts education and outreach programs that are offered by The Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts, Suzy also oversees the necessary fundraising for the Ruth Eckerd Hall Expanding the Experience capital campaign. She also provides leadership, support, training and direction for the development staff and continues the implementation of major funding campaign programs and solicitations of major gifts and sponsorships.
The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the standards set for core knowledge and skills required of fundraising executives after several years of experience. This practice-based designation requires demonstration of having met these standards through both an application and a written examination. CFRE International, accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is an independent nonprofit organization whose sole mission is dedicated to setting standards in philanthropy through the world’s only accredited certification for philanthropic fundraising professionals.
All candidates must complete a strenuous written application to qualify to sit for the CFRE examination. The application areas measured include: Professional Practice, Education, Performance and Service. CFRE candidates agree to adhere to the Donor Bill of Rights and the CFRE Program’s Accountability Standards, designed to promote integrity and ethical behavior of fundraising executives.
Suzy joined Ruth Eckerd Hall in March 2015 as Director of Development and in February of this year she was promoted to Chief Development Officer/Vice-President of Development.
Prior to joining Ruth Eckerd Hall, Suzy was the Divisional Advertising Manager for the Tampa Bay Times. She is on the Board of Directors for the Clearwater Arts Alliance and the Clearwater Regional Chamber as well as a long-time member of local community theatre.