Kris Cole

About Kris Cole

At Sullenberger Aviation Museum, I apply my years of experience and skills in fundraising, marketing, and donor relations to support the museum\'s mission of preserving and celebrating the legacy of the aviation industry. I am a creative thinker who thrives on finding win-win collaborations for mutual success.In my previous roles as Senior Director of Advancement at Carolina Raptor Center and Director of Philanthropy Operations at Levine Museum of the New South, I demonstrated my expertise in persuasive writing, public speaking, database management, process improvement, and campaign development. I also led and managed teams of staff and contractors, and worked closely with executive directors, board members, and other stakeholders to secure funding and increase awareness for the organizations. I am passionate about making a positive impact in the community and advancing the causes I believe in.

Experience

1. Vice President of Marketing & Communications

   Sullenberger Aviation Museum

   Dec 2025 — Present · Charlotte, NC, US

   Acting as a vital member of the executive leadership team at Sullenberger Aviation Museum, responsibilities include elevating the museum’s public presence while driving strategic growth through marketing, communications, and earned revenue initiatives.Lead the development and execution of integrated marketing and communications plans that amplify the museum’s mission — to inspire the next generation of aviators and innovators. In addition, directly oversee key revenue-generating departments, including retail operations, event rentals, and group sales, ensuring alignment between visitor experience, brand messaging, and financial performance.Reporting to the President & CEO, play a pivotal role in positioning the museum as a dynamic cultural destination, an educational leader in aviation and STEM, and a financially sustainable institution.

Education

• Appalachian State University

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Public/Applied History

• Appalachian State University

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Public History

  1987 — 1995

Skills

• Nonprofits
• Leadership
• Grant Writing
• Grants
• Public Speaking
• Outlook
• Microsoft Office
• Program Development
• Records Management
• Management
• Public Relations
• Event Planning
• Fundraising
• Event Management
• Database Management
• Community Outreach
• Community Development
• Volunteer Management
• Editing
• Fundraisers
• Microsoft Word
• Non-Profits
• Customer Service
• Research
• Microsoft Excel