Development IA

Debra Sandry

Director of Development
Quad City Symphony Orchestra
Davenport, Iowa
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Years in current position: 4
Years in the field: 12

Majors:
B.A. Communications/Public Relations
On my own, I took as many business classes as I was able to fit in my schedule.

Additional Training:
I have been a member of Association for Fundraising Professionals for a great deal of my time in the field. I take all available local training, attend meetings, and national conferences. 

Career Path:
Alumni Director, Marycrest College 
Program Director, Girl Scouts
Area Manager, American Diabetes Association 
Outreach Coordinator and Program Administrator, State of Iowa
Assistant Director, Generations Area Agency on Aging

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
Most surprising: the loyalty among board members. Most interesting: staffing/ administration (I had no idea what it took to run an orchestra). Challenging: educating the board and staff on the nature of true fundraising and setting priorities to make results happen.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
Honestly, the job was listed in our local paper. I have no music background and thought it was a long shot—I took a chance and I’ve loved my job ever since.

What was your first step when beginning your career in development?
I was able to take my first attempt at fundraising directly out of college and was strongly supported by my then-supervisor. I had a support system around me that allowed constant encouragement, support, and training.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Volunteer, volunteer, volunteer. Develop your transferable skills to the highest levels.

Any other advice?
Network. Read. Attend concerts and truly watch what it takes to run an orchestra.

Jean Tucker

Director of Development
Dubuque Symphony Orchestra
Dubuque, Iowa
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Years in current position: 3
Years in the field: 13

Majors:
B.S. Psychology, minor in Business Administration
M.S. Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Additional Training:
Principles and Techniques of Fundraising, The Fund Raising School
Association of Fundraising Professionals seminars and conferences
Orchestra Leadership Academy seminars, League of American Orchestras

Career Path:
Director of Annual Funds, Clarke College
Director of Annual Fund and Alumni Relations, Holy Family Catholic Schools

What are the most surprising, interesting or challenging aspects of your day-to-day work?
Most surprising: the information donors are willing to share. Most challenging: corporate sponsorships.

What inspired you to work for an orchestra?
Music has always been an important part of my life. I studied organ from second through eighth grades and clarinet from fifth grade into my freshman year of college. Currently, I am a member of our church handbell choir. I feel very strongly about the arts and want to share that passion with others.

What advice would you offer to someone considering the orchestra field?
Network with other colleagues, ask questions, read current literature, attend as many educational seminars as possible, get involved with your local Association of Professional Fundraisers chapter.