Cheri Comasco

Director of Development @Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra

Harrisburg, PA, US

As the Director of Development (DD) I take a leadership role in developing lasting philanthropic relationships with Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra (HSO) patrons and the business community with a specific focus on growing patron relationships, individual contributions, planned gifts, corporate sponsorships, grant writing, the annual report, special events and the PA Educational Improvement Tax Credit program. I am also responsible for the day-to-day administrative operations of the Development office and pride myself on having an advanced understanding of fundraising concepts. I oversee all the HSO’s fundraising initiatives, including the annual fund, corporate sponsorships, grant writing, capital campaigns, and special events. I interact with all the various HSO constituencies (Board Members, staff, volunteers, donors, musicians, audience members, etc.) and I possess strong interpersonal and writing skills, initiative, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Most importantly, I work to the ensure I exercise discretion, independent judgement, and a respect for confidentiality. and strong organizational skills. I have a cheerful outlook and people skills which give me the ability to collaborate well with my co-workers, donors, and various groups. I have a demonstrated history of meeting deadlines and establishing priorities to complete my reports, mailings, and projects on time. After working in philanthropy for over twenty years, I find fundraising to be an exciting career and I am so happy to be a part of this elite group of people who dedicate themselves to work for non-profit organizations.

University of Washington

BA, Speech Communications