Florida Grand Opera Hires New Director of Development

Florida Grand Opera (FGO) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Director of Development, Thomas Schramm, effective immediately.

"Over and above his years of experience, Tom brings a true dedication and leadership to his work. We are excited to have found someone who shares our views on donor relations, believing in the development of long lasting relationships that will grow not only our resources but also what we consider to be the FGO family," said Bob Heuer, FGO's General Director and CEO.

An exceptional communicator and team-builder, Schramm comes to FGO with 25 years of experience garnered in some of South Florida's most reputable medical institutions. Most recently, he served as Development Officer for Baptist Health South Florida, leading fundraising efforts for Homestead, Doctors, West Kendall and Baptist Children's Hospitals.

Among his highest professional achievements are securing $500,000 for high definition cameras and visual equipment for the surgery department at Homestead Hospital and the successful conclusion of two capital campaigns raising a combined total of more than $10 million for new hospital construction. He also expanded Homestead Hospital's relationship with NASCAR, resulting in more than $1 million cumulative contributions.

As Director of Development and Community Relations for the Sunrise Community, Schramm advised in fundraising efforts throughout Florida as well as six additional states. It was in this capacity that he secured a $100,000 grant to develop a dental health care program for people with developmental disabilities, creating a new line of business for the organization in addition to a much needed service for the clients, which illustrates his fundraising philosophy.

"Much in line with FGO's values, I take an approach to development that focuses on nurturing sincere relationships with donors to achieve both their philanthropic goals and the institution's strategic aims," said Schramm.

In his new role, he will work closely with General Director and CEO Robert Heuer in mapping out the company's fundraising program as it approaches its 71st anniversary in 2011-2012.

Schramm has excelled in development with director positions at some of South Florida's most renowned non-profits, such as University of Miami, Miami Heart Institute and American Red Cross. He studied music at the University of Miami and earned a BA in philosophy with honors from the University of North Carolina. A devoted family man, he lives in Kendall with his wife and three children.

About Florida Grand Opera

Florida Grand Opera was formed in June 1994 by the merger of Greater Miami Opera, founded in 1941, and The Opera Guild Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, founded in 1945. Celebrating its 70th season of continuous performances during the 2010-2011 season, Florida Grand Opera stands as one of the oldest performing arts organizations in Florida. In addition to producing standard repertoire, Florida Grand Opera also presents lesser known operas, as well as commissions and produces new operas. Annually, mainstage performances are attended by nearly 70,000 people, and education and outreach programs serve over 50,000 students. FGO offers several highly successful outreach and educational programs, including its internationally-recognized Young Artist Studio. Founded in 1984, the program attracts young singers who train and enhance their professional skills during a 35-week Miami residency.

Florida Grand Opera, recognized for funding by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding is also provided, in part, by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners and the Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council. Program support is provided by the City of Miami Beach, Cultural Affairs Program, Cultural Arts Council. Florida Grand Opera is a Resident Company of the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and a member company of OPERA America.

American Airlines is the Official Airline, Intercontinental Miami is the Official Hotel and Steinway & Sons is the Official Piano of Florida Grand Opera.

Don't Miss a Miami Metro News Story
Sign up for all the news on the Summer season, discounts & more...