Development Contacts

Associate Director of Development
Dr. Julie Maykowski
jmaykowski@sarasotaopera.org
941-366-8450, ext. 246

Individual Giving Officer:
Andrea Gartner
agartner@sarasotaopera.org
941-366-8450, ext. 416

Individual Giving Officer:
Max Kellogg
mkellogg@sarasotaopera.org 
941- 366-8450, ext. 253

Corporate and Special Events Officer:
Jennifer Simms
jsimms@sarasotaopera.org
941-366-8450, ext. 402

Sarasota Opera
Development Department
50 Central Avenue, Suite 820
Sarasota, FL 34236

With the dedicated support of audiences and patrons, Sarasota Opera has established a strong artistic reputation locally, nationally, and internationally. As we look forward to the next steps in the development of our community, we are committed to continuing to build the Opera based on the artistic and organizational vision which has guided the company to its current success. To ensure that Sarasota Opera continues to thrive, we are launching Building on the Vision, a campaign to raise $60 million in support of three areas vital to the company's future:   

Building – $20 Million

The highest priority of the campaign is the renovation of our 80-year-old theater and the expansion of our production and administrative facilities. Essential improvements will be made, including upgrades to public amenities, stage areas, theater equipment, the orchestra pit, air-conditioning, and electrical systems.

Endowment – $10 Million

The second goal is to build Sarasota Opera's endowment fund. A stronger endowment will preserve the quality of productions, support the Youth Opera Programs, maintain the diversity of the repertoire, expand public education and outreach, and enable us to attract and retain a highly qualified professional staff.

Legacy Gifts – $30 Million

The third goal of Building on the Vision is to encourage Legacy Gifts. These gifts are planned donations in the form of bequests, charitable remainder trusts, and similar estate-planning vehicles. These visionary gifts ensure that Sarasota Opera will continue to grow artistically and remain financially secure for years to come.