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Sara Jaffe
Vice President, Development at Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts
Professional Background
Sara Jaffe is a highly accomplished professional in the arts and development sectors, renowned for her strategic leadership and innovative approaches to fundraising and community engagement. With extensive experience spanning over two decades, Sara has made significant contributions to several prestigious organizations that advocate for the performing arts and community development. Currently serving as the Vice President of Development at the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts in Virginia, she has been instrumental in advancing the Foundation's mission and goals by establishing strong relationships with donors, community members, and arts enthusiasts alike.
Sara's journey in the arts began early in her educational career, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Dance at Trinity College-Hartford. Her formal education honed her artistic skills and ignited her passion for promoting the arts, setting the stage for her future accomplishments in the nonprofit sector. Throughout her time at Wolf Trap, both as the Senior Director of Development and in various roles, Sara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enhancing the accessibility and appreciation of the arts. Her leadership has positively impacted the Foundation’s development initiatives, resulting in increased funding and community outreach.
Education and Achievements
Sara Jaffe's educational background at The Hockaday School laid a strong foundation for her ambitious career in the performing arts and philanthropy. She furthered her studies at Trinity College-Hartford, where she earned a BA in Theatre and Dance, equipping herself with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex intersections of art and community engagement.
Sara's career trajectory showcases her diverse experiences in development and programming across prominent arts institutions. Before taking on her current role as Vice President, she held the position of Senior Director of Development at Wolf Trap Foundation, where she successfully led initiatives that brought substantial growth to the organization's funding and outreach efforts. Apart from her impactful tenure at Wolf Trap, Sara was also the Vice President at the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, where her leadership skills were vital in fostering community partnerships and advancing philanthropic efforts.
In addition to her notable positions, she has a wealth of experience working with reputable organizations such as Signature Theatre, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), and the National Geographic Channel, where she served as a contractor in programming roles. Her commitment to the arts is further evidenced by her previous role as Development Manager at Shakespeare Theatre Company, showcasing her capability to adapt her fundraising expertise in diverse artistic landscapes.
Sara's early career also included pivotal roles at the Wolf Trap Foundation, providing her with foundational experience in program management, community relations, and fundraising before moving on to larger positions. Her journey also took her to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where she completed an impactful internship in programming. This experience further solidified her interest in the arts, preparing her for a career dedicated to promoting and enhancing artistic expression across communities.
Achievements
Sara's many achievements highlight her dedication to fostering the arts and contributing positively to her community through strategic development. As a leader at the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, she has spearheaded initiatives that not only increased individual donor contributions but also enhanced corporate partnerships, ensuring the Foundation’s sustainability and expansion in the arts sector. Her ability to cultivate relationships with community stakeholders and influence fundraising strategies has been pivotal to the organization’s growth.
In her role at the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, Sara further showcased her versatility by implementing innovative community campaigns that engaged new donors and raised awareness of pressing social issues within the region. This dedication to community development emphasizes her belief in the power of the arts as a vehicle for social change and personal impact.
Sara’s history of prestigious roles, combined with her extensive network within the arts community, allows her to serve as a connector between donors and organizations passionately committed to enriching cultural life. Her understanding of both the artistic and operational aspects of nonprofit organizations, coupled with her strong communication skills and leadership abilities, makes her a standout figure in her field.
Sara Jaffe continues to inspire the next generation of artists and philanthropists through her work, commitment, and vision. She stands as a testament to the impact that skilled professionals can have in the arts and development sectors, all while maintaining her passion for theatre, dance, and community enrichment.
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