Expression Through Philanthropy: Powering Fine & Performing Arts Through Data & Relationship Collaboration

Expression Through Philanthropy: Powering Fine & Performing Arts Through Data & Relationship Collaboration

You are cordially invited to an afternoon of learning and connection at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore. Apra DC-MD, in partnership with AFP Maryland, AFP Western Maryland, and AFP DC has convened a group of arts fundraisers and prospect development professionals to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in arts philanthropy. Moderated by Apra DC-MD Board Member Nayeli Garcia, the following panel will share their experience working in the region across a variety of disciplines.

After the panel, attendees will enjoy museum tours and continue the conversation with casual networking at Mick O'Shea's.

Whether you are in arts fundraising or another sector of philanthropy, learn alongside colleagues from across the Baltimore-Washington region.

PANELISTS

Liz Courtemanche, Chief Philanthropy Officer at The Walters Art Museum

Liz, a leader in Maryland arts fundraising, came to the museum with 16 years of experience in Baltimore-based philanthropy, including a previous role at the Walters. Prior to her return, she served as the Director of Philanthropy (2023–2025) at The Baltimore Banner, where she stewarded a major giving program for the new nonprofit news organization. Liz also led fundraising at the Baltimore Museum of Art as the Senior Director and Department Head of Advancement (2019–2023) and served as the Associate Director of Development, Sheridan Libraries & University Museums at Johns Hopkins University (2012–2019) and Campaign Gifts Officer and Development Researcher at the Walters Art Museum (2009–2012).

Drew Halford, Senior Manager of Development at The Washington Ballet

Drew brings over five years of nonprofit development and fundraising expertise to the performing arts community in Washington, D.C. His comprehensive experience includes individual and institutional giving, strategic planning, and donor relations across prominent arts organizations. At the Children’s Chorus of Washington and most recently as Associate Director of Development at the Choral Arts Society of Washington, Drew successfully managed major fundraising campaigns, cultivated individual donor relationships, and executed high-impact special events. As a lifelong musician and percussionist, he combines professional development acumen with genuine passion for the performing arts in his work with The Washington Ballet.

Robert McClure, Founder and Principal Writer of McClure Grants and Fundraising

Robert is a seasoned grant professional who works in all phases of the grant lifecycle. He has raised over $25,000,000 to date for his clients, which have included service non-profits, units of government, economic development entities, scientific and technological research firms, and many others. He is presently an independent grant writer and consultant, especially focused on helping nonprofits on the Delmarva Peninsula and other low income communities expand their programs.

Kellyn Smith, Director of Development, Sundance Institute

Kellyn is a creative, resourceful, and dynamic philanthropy leader with 20+ years of experience exceeding fundraising goals and proven success in major gift fundraising, prospect development, portfolio optimization, campaign management, strategic planning, and team leadership. She is a valued peer for her exceptional skills in strategic thinking, communication, problem-solving, change management, and balancing competing priorities in a dynamic environment. She is as committed to building inclusive and equitable fundraising teams and fostering strong relationships with donors and partners as she is passionate about philanthropy being a force for transformational change.

Angela Wheeler, CEO & Principal, A. Wheeler Consulting, LLC

With more than 20 years of experience working in nonprofit development offices and leading A. Wheeler Consulting LLC, Angela empowers creatives and social change leaders to build sustainable fundraising strategies and enhance donor relations. Collaborating with executive teams and Boards, the firm implements tailored initiatives that elevate fundraising performance and create lasting impact for organizations, artists, social entrepreneurs and nonprofit executives. Previously, as Chief of External Affairs at the Baltimore Museum of Art, her team surpassed fundraising goals by 200%, raising $1M for the BMA Ball through strategic revenue generation and operational improvements. Special projects with clients have yielded nearly $70M raised, and numerous contributions to the well-being of residents, children, adults, families, and the environment. Angela's clientele spans the Baltimore-Washington region.

MODERATOR

Nayeli Garcia, Founder & CEO, Chameleon Collaborative, LLC

Nayeli has devoted her career to nonprofit operations and fundraising, drawing from her experiences internationally and from the private, government, and higher education sectors. She has worked in various settings and as an independent consultant to advance education, the arts, social justice, and environmental issues. A longtime arts patron, she became even more immersed in the Baltimore art scene when working at Maryland Institute College of Art, first in research and then leading all stewardship and scholarship efforts. She is a proud collaborator of a Monument Quilt piece acquired by the Baltimore Museum of Art, has served as a Panelist for the Maryland State Arts Council, and has just been selected to participate as a Panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts.

Nayeli launched her boutique firm Chameleon Collaborative, LLC in early 2024, creating a platform for independent consultants with a diverse skillset to work together on client projects. She combines her creative thinking, nonprofit expertise, and Gallup Strengths Certification to partner with leaders to advance their mission.