Fundraising Expert Lisa Halsey Joins Gulfshore Playhouse as Chief Advancement Officer

Gulfshore Playhouse announces the hiring of Lisa Halsey as Chief Advancement Officer as the organization ramps up to move into the Baker Theatre and Education Center in 2024.

“We are thrilled that Lisa is joining our team. With her fundraising expertise, she will surely steward our current donors beautifully, while reaching out to new donors who will become loyal members of the Gulfshore Family, ensuring our sustainability and financial strength as we navigate the opening of the new theatre and expand into our bright future,” said Kristen Coury, Founder, CEO and Producing Artistic Director.

Born and raised near Erie, Pennsylvania, Lisa has spent her entire career in fundraising at WQLN, the local PBS and NPR affiliate. In her more than 26-year tenure she led the fundraising team, organized fundraising events, oversaw the stations annual fund, built the station’s major and planned giving programs from the ground up, served as executive producer on several television productions and most recently secured the stations largest ever individual gift. Lisa received her CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive) certification in 2019 and served on the board of her local Erie AFP chapter as VP of Education.

Her time in public media has instilled a passion for nonprofit work that gives back to the community by enriching lives, educating children, and entertaining the public. She is thrilled that this next step in her career gives her the opportunity to continue fundraising for those same core mission values and she’s honored to be part of this cultural institution.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to be part of Gulfshore Playhouse. I look forward to leading the Advancement Team into the most exciting of times as we prepare for the opening of The Baker Theatre and Education Center,” said Halsey. “Just arriving in Naples last week, it is very apparent how generous the community is and I’m excited to meet each and every donor and sponsor that has brought Gulfshore Playhouse to this point.  I’m thrilled to be part of such a cultural and educational institution.”

“Lisa is a highly accomplished leader who we are excited to watch guide Gulfshore Playhouse towards a bright and sustainable future. We are thrilled to welcome her to our team,” stated Joel Markus, COO and Managing Director.